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Natural disasters, such as the devastating hurricanes currently affecting Florida, can cause widespread destruction and loss of life. While these disasters are often seen as “acts of nature,” they can also raise important legal questions about liability when people are injured or lose their lives as a result of these events. If you or a loved one has been impacted by a hurricane or other natural disaster, it’s important to understand your legal rights.

At Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro, we have decades of experience helping victims of personal injury and wrongful death navigate the complex legal landscape following tragic events, including natural disasters. While hurricanes and other catastrophes may seem unavoidable, in many cases, negligence on the part of property owners, corporations, or even government entities can contribute to injuries or fatalities.

Hurricanes, Negligence, and Personal Injury

When a hurricane strikes, the immediate cause of harm is often the storm itself. However, in many cases, injuries or deaths that occur during a natural disaster can be tied to negligence. Here are some examples of how negligence can play a role in hurricane-related personal injury cases:

• Unsafe Structures: Buildings that are not constructed or maintained to withstand hurricanes may collapse, leading to injuries or deaths. Property owners and managers have a responsibility to ensure that their buildings meet safety codes, especially in hurricane-prone areas.
• Failure to Evacuate: If an employer or government authority fails to evacuate people from dangerous areas in a timely manner, they could be held liable for injuries or fatalities that result.
• Defective Products: Faulty equipment, such as generators, that fail during a storm can lead to serious harm. Product manufacturers or retailers could be held responsible if their products fail during an emergency.
• Lack of Emergency Preparedness: Inadequate emergency response plans by businesses, municipalities, or other organizations can lead to avoidable injuries. For example, failing to secure outdoor items or neglecting to inform the public about evacuation routes can create dangerous conditions.

Wrongful Death Claims in Natural Disasters

Sadly, hurricanes and other natural disasters can lead to loss of life. When this happens, surviving family members may have grounds to file a wrongful death lawsuit if negligence was a contributing factor. Whether it’s the result of a building collapse, a lack of proper evacuation protocols, or defective safety equipment, it’s crucial for families to explore their legal options after such a tragedy.

At Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro, we are deeply committed to helping families seek justice when their loved ones are taken too soon. Our wrongful death attorneys work closely with families to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death and to hold responsible parties accountable. We understand the emotional toll these cases take and are here to guide you every step of the way.

How Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro Can Help

If you or someone you know has been injured or lost their life due to negligence during a natural disaster, our experienced personal injury and wrongful death attorneys at Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro are here to help. We specialize in complex personal injury cases across New York State, and our team has a long track record of holding negligent parties accountable.

What to Do After a Natural Disaster

If you’ve been impacted by a hurricane or other natural disaster, taking the following steps can help protect your rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t think you’ve been seriously injured, it’s important to see a doctor after a disaster to document any potential injuries.
2. Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the scene, including any hazards that may have contributed to your injury.
3. Keep Records: Keep a detailed record of your medical treatments, expenses, and any communications with property owners, employers, or authorities.
4. Contact an Attorney: Reach out to a personal injury attorney to discuss your case and determine whether negligence played a role in your injury or loss.

Get Legal Help Today

Natural disasters like hurricanes can have life-altering consequences. If you’ve been injured or have lost a loved one due to negligence during a hurricane, don’t wait to seek legal advice. Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro is here to help you understand your legal options and pursue justice for you and your family. Contact us today for a free consultation.