Stay informed on emerging issues and trends in the insurance industry.
08/16/18
The theories of recovery, as well as the ensuing loss provisions, contained in property insurance policies are often complex and, at times, seemingly in conflict. Although a policy may not directly address these theories, their application by courts plays a significant role in the coverage determination process after the claim. It is essential that brokers understand the primary theories of recovery – Efficient Proximate Cause, the Concurrent Causation Doctrine, and the Anti-Concurrent Causation Doctrine – in order to navigate the challenging post-claim process and effectively serve their clients.
08/16/18
A common complication during the claim process is the late reporting of claims. In some cases, a late claim can put the agent or broker's own E&O policy in jeopardy. There are many reasons for missing a reporting deadline; however, in most cases, they will not matter to the insurer or the courts. This article discusses typical claim reporting requirements, common causes of late reporting, and recommendations to mitigate the risk of late notice claim denials.
07/24/18
One of the biggest misconceptions regarding California Earthquake coverage is that it is a straightforward and elective coverage. With the lowest frequency in the CAT space, this peril is often misunderstood. However, one large event with subsequent aftershocks could result in significant losses. We have compiled a list of the top 10 misconceptions about placing CA Earthquake coverage which can help you understand this peril and what is truly being offered.
04/24/18
When a storm event occurs, multiple perils often intersect, creating a very challenging environment for a policyholder to prove their loss. Whether these perils are insured by an insurance policy, and if so to what extent, depends on the terms, conditions, definitions and exclusions in the policy. This article discusses the difference between wind-driven rain and rising water, the broad impact of using wind-driven water verbiage, and the importance of clear policy wording concerning water perils.
03/22/18
The Thomas Fire, the largest fire in California's history, subsequently led to a mudslide on January 9, 2018, which caused a massive amount of damage in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. The California Insurance Commissioner has issued a formal notice reminding carriers to pay for damage, citing the "efficient proximate cause doctrine." This article takes a closer look at the doctrine and how it has been challenged in court over the years.
01/11/18
In 2017, the issue of sexual harassment – especially in the workplace – gained greater awareness as accusations of harassment by high-profile individuals were constantly in the news. In many cases, sexual harassment lawsuits seriously impacted businesses and their respective insurers. Employment Practices Liability Insurance not only provides protection against employee lawsuits, but can also help your clients mitigate their sexual harassment risks.
01/11/18
Ordinance or Law insurance coverage provides limited protection for costs associated with repairing, rebuilding, or constructing a structure when physical damage to the structure by a covered cause of loss triggers an ordinance or law. Compliance with ordinances and laws after a loss can add 50% or more to the cost of a claim. This article will help you educate your insureds on exclusions and limitations and help them take a proactive approach to their insurance program.
10/31/17
Due to the Doctrine of Negligent Entrustment, the consequences of allowing an employee with a poor driving record to operate any motor vehicle for work purposes extend beyond a possible traffic violation or accident. These seven tips will help you to proactively manage your drivers and maintain your CDL files as part of your fleet safety program.
While policyholders should strive to provide the insurer with complete and accurate values for buildings and business personal property that are the subject of insurance, policyholders should also understand the basic workings of the coinsurance condition. In this article, we'll see an example of the potential penalties for underinsurance, the agreed value option, blanket limits and margin clauses.