News from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners shows the average premium for Florida homeowners is nearly twice the national average.

With no major hurricanes for the past few years, homeowners are wondering why.

One answer is the rise of frivolous lawsuits. Every time a policy holder sues an insurance company claiming property damage, when the damage was due to normal wear and tear, that’s a likely fraud. Fraudulent lawsuits must be curbed, as the rise in lawsuits is paralleled by the rise in rates.

The idea that no one is hurt if you sue your insurance company — after all, you paid your premiums — is totally erroneous. In fact, everyone is hurt. Florida homeowners feel they have a built-in excuse.

Heavy rains, flooding and winds occur with regularity, so why not blame the climate for the wear and tear on the house, patio, lawn and roof — and file a claim? If the insurance company balks, sue. A win or even a settlement could pay for new furniture, the garage conversion, even an add-on to the house.

The truth is everyone pays when premiums rise. With more and more frivolous lawsuits, they will continue to do so.

Source:  Sun-Sentinel