How Can A Power Of Attorney Help During A Natural Disaster?
When tropical storms, hurricanes, and other natural disasters hit Florida, they can disrupt your life in unimaginable ways. For residents in Daytona Beach, being prepared is not only a recommendation, but a necessity. An important part of preparing for a natural disaster is having a power of attorney in place, but it is also often overlooked. Below, our Daytona Beach advance directives lawyer explains more about these important documents and how they can help during a natural disaster.
What is a Power of Attorney?
A power of attorney is a legal tool that allows you, as the principal, to authorize someone else, known as the agent, to act and make decisions for you as your representative in the event that you are unable to. Depending on the type of power of attorney you choose, your agent can make many different types of decisions for you, ranging from the healthcare you receive to how your assets are managed. The different types of powers of attorney are as follows:
- General power of attorney, which gives your agent general authority to handle a number of financial and legal matters
- Durable power of attorney, which remains in effect even if you become incapacitated
- Special or limited power of attorney, which is limited to specific tasks, such as managing a real estate transaction
- Healthcare power of attorney, which allows your agent to make medical decisions on your behalf
Why is a Power of Attorney Important During a Natural Disaster?
Natural disasters can lead to situations in which decisions must be made immediately. However, evacuations, injuries, and other disruptions can prevent you from acting on your own behalf. During these difficult times, a power of attorney becomes invaluable. The main benefits of a power of attorney during a natural disaster include:
- Continued management of finances: A natural disaster can greatly interrupt regular life such as managing insurance claims, paying bills, and even accessing bank accounts. A power of attorney can ensure another person will continue to manage your finances while you focus on staying safe.
- Emergency healthcare decisions: No one can predict what types of injuries or illnesses a natural disaster will cause. If you cannot communicate with medical professionals, your agent can make decisions according to your wishes and ensure they are respected.
- Managing property and evacuations: Recovering from a natural disaster often involves significant property management. Whether you need to coordinate household contracts, settle insurance claims, or protect your property from storm damage, a power of attorney can manage these tasks if you are unavailable.
- Reduce stress for loved ones: Natural disasters are already stressful enough for your family members. With a power of attorney already established, your loved ones will not have to scramble and make important, but difficult, decisions.
Our Advance Directive Lawyer in Daytona Beach Can Prepare Your POA
Powers of attorney are helpful in many life scenarios, including natural disasters. At Bundza & Rodriguez, our Daytona Beach advance directive lawyer can ensure that your power of attorney is executed properly so your wishes are respected. Call us today at 386-252-5170 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
Source:
flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2010/709.08
