[StBernard] Krunch Time For Katrina Claims Against Insurers

[Westley Annis]

KRUNCH TIME FOR KATRINA CLAIMS AGAINST INSURERS


The deadline for filing Katrina claims is just around the corner, coinciding
with the second anniversary of the storm.  Originally, the law provided a
one year deadline, but legislation which I authored along with other members
of the legislature extended this deadline by an additional year.  So if you
have not resolved your claims with your insurance company by now, I would
strongly suggest that you file suit.  Otherwise you will be forfeiting any
legal leverage you may have against your insurer.  I would also recommend
that you file your suit as soon as possible, preferably by August 28th to
avoid any prescription problems.
 
In hiring an attorney, I would recommend that you use one that handles
insurance litigation and many have been advertising on television.  Many
area attorneys have already filed such suits against insurance companies and
any further information on eligible attorneys can be obtained from the
Louisiana Bar Association 504-566-1600.
 
KATRINA CLAIMS AGAINST US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
 
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced that it will be accepting
Katrina-related claims against the agency for any alleged damages, injury no
later than August 29, 2007.  Claims include any damages in connection with
debris removal or Blue Roof work.  According to the Corps, August 29, 2007
is the official receipt date and no mail postmarked after that date will be
accepted.  A Standard Form 95 must be completed and the form is located at
www.mvn.usace.army.mil <http://www.mvn.usace.army.mil/>    and press on
purple bar at top of page.  Forms are also available at most New Orleans
post offices.
 
The mailing address for the form is: 
 
                   ;                      Angela Drinkwitz, Claims
Administrator
                                        P.O. Box 60267
                                        New Orleans, LA  70160   (by regular
mail)
 
                                        7400 Leake Avenue 
                                        New Orleans, LA  70118  (overnight
or certified)
 
Also, you can contact 504-862-2826.  
  
ELECTION ASSISTANCE
 
The state legislative web site www.legis.state.la.us
<http://www.legis.state.la.us/>  contains valuable information that could be
of assistance in the pending election season.