Case Studies from Hurricane Helene Highlight Critical Distinctions in Damage Causation
TAMPA, Fla. — DDA Forensics Director of Engineering Dr. Ziad Azzi presented at the Galloway Claims & Litigation Conference on April 16 at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street. The event featured insightful presentations, professional development, and networking opportunities for attorneys, claims professionals, and industry leaders.
Dr. Azzi presented “Wind vs. Storm Surge Damage: Case Studies from Hurricane Helene” from 9:10 to 10 a.m. The presentation provided a comprehensive overview of the field adjuster and inspector role in identifying and distinguishing between wind- and storm surge-related damage in residential coastal buildings. It introduced core principles of wind science and hurricane formation and examined how wind forces and storm surge affect structural performance.
“I had the pleasure of presenting on the key distinctions between wind damage and storm surge damage to residential coastal structures, using post-event case studies from Hurricane Helene. Engaging with adjusters, attorneys, and claims professionals without an engineering background is especially rewarding. Translating complex forensic concepts into clear, practical insights is a critical part of what we do as expert witnesses and forensic engineers,” Azzi said.
Through field observations and real-world case studies from Hurricane Helene, attendees were guided through key indicators used to distinguish between wind and water damage and develop clear, defensible conclusions. The session also incorporated wind tunnel testing visuals and examples of roof damage patterns, equipping participants with practical tools to improve damage identification, strengthen documentation and enhance the accuracy of coastal claim evaluations.
The one-day conference brought together attorneys, claims professionals and industry leaders to discuss critical topics in claims and litigation. Sessions covered areas including hurricane damage, construction defect, forensic accounting, biomechanics in injury claim evaluation, anti-corporate sentiments in the courtroom, evidentiary challenges tied to evolving technology and legislative and case law updates.
About DDA Forensics
DDA Forensics provides forensic engineering, building consulting and expert witness services for attorneys and insurance carriers throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Texas. We specialize in evaluating and determining the cause of property damage and failures for residential and commercial structures. With over 20 years of experience, the most advanced education, certifications and technologies, we provide objective and accurate forensic investigations that yield clear, concise, conclusive results. Learn more at bjavronf.elementor.cloud/.
About Galloway Johnson Tompkins Burr & Smith
Galloway Johnson Tompkins Burr & Smith is a premier corporate defense and litigation firm serving clients across the Gulf South and Midwest. With more than 140 attorneys in 14 offices across seven states, we are a trusted, reliable, and strategic partner to our clients. Each of our legal professionals excels individually and within a collaborative, knowledge-sharing environment dedicated to delivering exceptional results. Learn more at www.GallowayLawFirm.com.
Media Inquiries:
Angela Delmedico
Elev8 Consulting Group
Ph: 386-243-5388
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Web: www.elev8cg.com
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