When James and Gladys Kemp Lisanby felt they did not receive the proper amount they deserved from their insurance company after Hurricane Katrina severely damaged their home, they did what many Gulf Coast residents are unfortunately too scared or unsure to do: they got a lawyer. And they won.
After receiving over $900,000 in 2008 for their suit of policy limits for their losses and punitive damages as a result of deliberate underpayment, the Lisanbys received an additional $500,000 in January of 2009, bringing their total awardance to over $1.4 million. The additional $500,000 was awarded to compensate legal costs and case fees. The Mississippi couple successfully sued their insurance company, United States Automobile Association, after USAA paid the Lisanbys approximately $45,000 for damage done to the structure and property located on the second floor.
The important message sent by the Mississippi courts is simple: the law will help defend Gulf Coast residents when they are hit by underpaying insurance companies. Various cases similar to the Lisanbys’ have gone through Louisiana and Texas courts.
If you feel you have been underpaid in your claim or that your insurance company is not living up to their end of your policy, contact the Berniard Law Firm toll-free at 504-521-6000 to have an attorney inspect your possible case and give you the best legal advice you can get.