13 BUSINESSES IN FOUR BUILDINGS AFFECTED BY FIRE IN GARRETTSVILLE, OH

A devastating fire broke out on Saturday afternoon impacting many businesses in downtown Garrettsville, Ohio.  The old buildings may have caused the fire to spread more rapidly.  The buildings were made of wood and built in the 1800's before fire codes and safety precautions.  Fortunately, everyone got out safely.  Two firefighters suffered smoke inhalation, but were not seriously injured.

Now the business owners are left to pick up the pieces.  For more on the article, visit  ChronicleOnline.com

The article does not discuss the ongoing ramifications and struggles these business owners will be facing.  Small businesses carry insurance for tragedies like this.  Unfortunately, insurance companies will often deny and devalue insurance claims for fire damage and loss.   This financial disruption can sometimes irreparably harm a business.

If you are a business owner and are struggling with your insurance company from a fire claim,  talk to an experienced attorney about a bad faith insurance claim.  This may happen just once to you, but the insurance companies handle claims everyday.  It is smart to consult with someone who knows insurance law, policies and your rights.  Jim DeRoche has handled bad faith insurance claims and is available to review your claim.