Blog

Navigating the Unexpected: How +One Turned Crisis into Clarity

Aug 11, 2025

At Oakbridge, we firmly believe in strategic risk navigation. That’s why we developed +One, a unified service model that combines proactive support, expert claims advocacy, and trusted risk guidance. It’s more than a service offering; it’s a philosophy that combines one team, one mission, and one powerful partnership. And for Nolan and Nicole Woody of Curbed Construction, that partnership made all the difference.

When the Lightning Strikes

In an event no homebuilder could ever truly prepare for, a lightning strike hit the Woodys’ newly constructed personal residence. What followed should have been a straightforward path to recovery. Instead, it became an exercise in frustration. The carrier delayed and remained largely unresponsive to critical concerns, leaving the Woodys feeling unsupported and at risk.

But this is precisely where +One proves its value. Clayton Matthews, Director of Claims Management Services, exemplified Oakbridge’s unwavering commitment to strategic advocacy. With diligence and focus, he championed the client’s needs throughout the claims process, ensuring their concerns were prioritized and their interests protected, even amid carrier delays and communication challenges.

Through +One’s strategic claims approach, Oakbridge successfully pushed the carrier to send a hygienist to evaluate environmental safety risks on the property, which ultimately secured over $100,000 in recovered value for the Woodys.

Advocacy in Action

For Nolan and Nicole, the impact was deeply personal. This was more than claim recovery; it was about being seen, heard, and supported during a moment of complete vulnerability.

“I’m genuinely glad you’re on my team and thankful for your willingness to jump in on the claim,” Nolan shared with Clayton. “You’ve been a huge help throughout this.”

Nicole echoed that sentiment:

“Without your advocacy, I don’t know that we would have ended up in the position we landed. I appreciate your willingness to be involved in the details on everything and go to bat for us when conversation became combative at times.”

Their gratitude reflects the very essence of how +One stands apart through clear communication, unwavering partnership, and strategic intervention that achieve real results.

A Model That Works

With a 95% client satisfaction rate for risk guidance and a 28% average reduction in total claims costs, the +One model is proven to deliver.

Our Claims Management & Advocacy team works seamlessly with carriers and our clients from incident intake to post-claim review. Whether it’s persuading a carrier to take action or supporting a family through difficult situations, we ensure closed claims and, more importantly, we build trust and improve outcomes.

As Principal Mark Brock puts it:

“I cannot think of a better way to illustrate the difference a true claims advocate can have for our clients. Clayton is the best I’ve ever been around in 43 years.”

Empowering Clients with Confidence

For the Woodys and Curbed Construction, the +One difference was transformative. What began as a surreal moment of loss became a powerful reminder of the importance of strong coverage and even stronger support.

The +One team stands as advocates for every client who trusts us to guide them through the unpredictable. What we continue to achieve is the result of one team, one mission, and one powerful client partnership that supports success every step of the way.