Agribusiness Industry Articles

Environmental

Silly Insurance Requirements Lead to Bogus Insurance Certificates

2023-01-27 | David Dybdahl

Be vigilant for outdated wording. David Dybdahl explains what to look for.

Workers Compensation Issues

20 Workers Comp Issues To Watch in 2023

2023-01-27 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Mark Walls and Kimberly George examine problem areas to monitor in 2023.

Agricultural Insurance

Agriculture and Cyber—Made for Each Other

2023-01-20 | Casey Roberts

Farms face cyber risks, too. Casey Roberts describes the many risks.

Workers Compensation Issues

20 Workers Comp Issues To Watch in 2022

2022-02-16 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Mark Walls and Kimberly George examine workers compensation problem areas to monitor.

Workers Compensation Issues

Employer Trends Shaping the Workplace

2022-01-19 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

The pandemic has shown the need forflexible and hybrid work environments, per Mark Walls and Kimberly George.

Workers Compensation Issues

Pandemic Decision-Making

2022-01-14 | Joe Galusha

Aon s Global COVID 19 Task Force answers some hard questions related to infections, vaccinations, employees, and employers.

Workers Compensation Issues

COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate Compliance

2021-12-15 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Mark Walls and Kimberly George discuss what employers should do to properly navigate the requirement.

Workers Compensation Issues

Navigating the Future of Risk Management

2021-11-26 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Understand the data behind your workers compensation insurance program, advises Mark Walls and Kimberly George.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Bigger Picture of COVID-19 Data

2021-11-18 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Mark Walls and Kimberly George compare pandemic trends and their impact on workers compensation.

Workers Compensation Issues

Employers Managing the Challenges of Civil Unrest

2021-08-19 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Last year provided many lessons. Mark Walls and Kimberly George suggest ways we can learn from them.

Environmental

How COVID-19 Changed the Commercial Cleaning Business

2021-06-18 | David Dybdahl

Early indications are that change is coming in providing insurance. David Dybdahl relates the history and prognosis.

Workers Compensation Issues

State of Mental Health in the Workplace

2021-06-11 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Mark Walls and Kimberly George report on the changing workplace and legal environments.

Workers Compensation Issues

Post-COVID Analytics and Benchmarks

2021-05-19 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Mark Walls and Kimberly George advise risk managers to define their narrative, recognize COVID-19 changes, and respond accordingly.

Workers Compensation Issues

COVID-19 Is Not an Occupational Disease

2021-04-09 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

COVID-19 Is Not an Occupational Disease—To cover COVID, new state laws ignore the designed purpose of workers compensation insurance. Mark Walls explains.

Environmental

Managing the Risks of Resiliency-Related Services

2021-03-26 | David Dybdahl

In light of winter storms, restoration and reconstruction are critical. David Dybdahl looks for coverage.

Workers Compensation Issues

COVID Claims Development: Workers Compensation and Long-Term Effects

2021-03-19 | Kimberly George, Mark Walls

COVID Claims Development: Workers Compensation and Long-Term Effects—COVID-19 variants and vaccine myths are discussed by Mark Walls and Kimberly George.

Workers Compensation Issues

COVID Claims Development: Workers Compensation and Beyond

2021-03-12 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

COVID Claims Development: Workers Compensation and Beyond—Mark Walls and Kimberly George explore current trends in COVID-19 claims.

Workers Compensation Issues

20 Workers Comp Issues To Watch in 2021

2021-02-05 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

20 Workers Comp Issues To Watch in 2021—Mark Walls and Kimberly George relate important issues for every risk manager and insurance professional to monitor in 2021.

Workers Compensation Issues

Perils of Pandemic Premium Audits

2021-01-29 | Mark Walls

Perils of Pandemic Premium Audits—COVID-19 has had an impact on insurers and regulators alike.

Environmental

Proactively Manage COVID-19 Risks in the Built Environment

2021-01-08 | David Dybdahl

David Dybdahl addresses the hype, hoopla, hazard, and risk.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Continued Impact of COVID-19 on Workers Compensation

2020-12-11 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

The Continued Impact of COVID-19 on Workers Compensation—Mark Walls and Kimberley George discuss the effect of COVID-19 on workers compensation.

Agricultural Insurance

Sexual Abuse and Insurance in the Agriculture Industry

2020-11-13 | Casey Roberts

Sexual Abuse and Insurance in the Agriculture Industry—Casey Roberts updates his 2018 article examining harassment issues and their prosecution.

Workers Compensation Issues

State of the Commercial Insurance Marketplace

2020-10-30 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

State of the Commercial Insurance Marketplace—Risk managers need to prepare to respond to changes in the US market, per Mark Walls and Kimberly George.

Workers Compensation Issues

Women Safely Dressing for Success

2020-10-16 | Tricia Kagerer

Women Safely Dressing for Success—No longer "shrink it and pink it," PPE for women is now available. Tricia Kagerer interviews entrepreneur Ana Kraft.

Workers Compensation Issues

Evolving Health Technology Models

2020-10-16 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Evolving Health Technology Models—Telemedicine, digital health, and on-demand medicine are creating healthy trends in the workforce. Mark Walls and Kimberly George discuss.

Workers Compensation Issues

"Closing Care Gaps" for an Aging Workforce

2020-10-16 | Joe Galusha

"Closing Care Gaps" for an Aging Workforce—Joe Galusha discusses an innovative approach to improving workers compensation outcomes.

Agricultural Insurance

Coinsurance in Farm/Ag Policies

2020-10-02 | Casey Roberts

Casey Roberts updates his article explaining the importance of coinsurance provisions in farm property coverage forms.

Environmental

Cost Cap Is Back (and Better Than Before)

2020-08-28 | Michael O Hill

Cost Cap Is Back (and Better Than Before)—Gone for nearly a decade, this environmental product makes a welcome resurgence, per Michael Hill.

Environmental

Mitigating the COVID-19 Risk in Buildings

2020-07-24 | David Dybdahl

David Dybdahl explains how biohazard risks require specially adapted risk management protocols.

Workers Compensation Issues

We Are Open for Business. Now What?

2020-07-17 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

We Are Open for Business. Now What?—Mark Walls and Kimberly George discuss employer considerations for returning to a physical workspace.

Agricultural Insurance

Meet Me at the Corner of "Agriculture" and "Pollution"

2020-07-10 | Casey Roberts

Casey Roberts updates his 2016 article looking at pollution exposures for agriculture (ag) operations.

Personal Risk Management

Home Replacement Cost Valuation Guide

2020-07-10 | Kurt Thoennessen

Home Replacement Cost Valuation Guide—How can home owners determine their home's value? Kurt Thoennessen provides tips.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Coronavirus (COVID-19)—Is It Compensable?

2020-06-18 | Christine Fuge, Veronica Bates

Factors such as whether it was contracted during the course of employment and the laws and case law of the jurisdiction will matter.

Workers Compensation Issues

OSHA and COVID-19 Updates

2020-06-12 | Tricia Kagerer

OSHA and COVID-19 Updates—Tricia Kagerer summarizes recent guidance on how to handle workers who test positive for COVID-19.

Workers Compensation Issues

Employer Perspectives and Priorities during a Pandemic

2020-06-05 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Employer Perspectives and Priorities during a Pandemic—Mark Walls and Kimberly George discuss returning to regular business operations.

Agricultural Insurance

GMOs: a Primer (of Sorts)

2020-05-22 | Casey Roberts

Casey Roberts updates his 2016 article on genetically modified organisms and explains what they mean to us today.

Workers Compensation Issues

Access to Care and Return to Work during a Pandemic

2020-05-22 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Access to Care and Return to Work during a Pandemic—Mark Walls and Kimberly George discuss some effects of COVID-19 on workers.

Workers Compensation Issues

NCCI Annual Issues Symposium—2020

2020-05-15 | Christine Fuge

NCCI Annual Issues Symposium—2020—COVID-19, the effect of the pandemic on the industry, the failing economy, and worker demographics were discussed.

Agricultural Insurance

Genetic Engineering and Genetically Modified Crops

2020-05-08 | Casey Roberts

Agricultural insurance commentator Casey Roberts describes modern plant breeding techniques.

Workers Compensation Issues

NCCI Provides Workers Compensation Research about COVID-19 Impact

2020-05-08 | Christine Fuge

NCCI Provides Workers Compensation Research about COVID-19 Impact—Learn more about the studies and the new loss predictive interactive tool.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Impact of COVID-19 on Workers Compensation

2020-05-08 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

The Impact of COVID-19 on Workers Compensation—Mark Walls and Kimberly George discuss the pandemic with industry experts.

Workers Compensation Issues

Is COVID-19 Recordable or Reportable to OSHA?

2020-05-01 | Tricia Kagerer

Is COVID-19 Recordable or Reportable to OSHA?—Tricia Kagerer examines the workers compensation aspects of COVID-19.

Workers Compensation Issues

Pain Management and Well-Being during a Pandemic

2020-05-01 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Pain Management and Well-Being during a Pandemic—Mark Walls and Kimberley George look at changes in medical care due to COVID-19.

Agricultural Insurance

The Mobile Agricultural Machinery and Equipment Coverage Form (MAMECF)

2020-04-10 | Casey Roberts

Learn about what's covered and what isn't regarding the Mobile Agricultural Machinery and Equipment Coverage Form (MAMECF) from Casey Roberts.

Environmental

Environmental Insurance Coverage for COVID-19 and Other Biological Hazards

2020-04-10 | David Dybdahl

EIt's rare to find coverage for biological contamination risks. David Dybdhal elaborates.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Real Impact of COVID-19 on Workers Compensation

2020-04-03 | Mark Walls

The Real Impact of COVID-19 on Workers Compensation—Mark Walls examines how the challenges arising from this virus will impact the industry.

Personal Risk Management

Second Home Risk Management Strategies

2020-03-06 | Kurt Thoennessen

Second Home Risk Management Strategies—Insuring a second house can be challenging. Kurt Thoennessen explains and provides risk management tips.

Workers Compensation Issues

20 Employment Issues To Watch in 2020

2020-02-07 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

20 Employment Issues To Watch in 2020—Mark Walls and Kimberly George discuss issues they feel will be critical this year.

Personal Risk Management

Personal Risk Management and How It Improves Loss Resilience

2020-01-03 | Kurt Thoennessen

Personal Risk Management and How It Improves Loss Resilience—Having a risk management mindset is key, per Kurt Thoennessen.

Workers Compensation Issues

Understanding the Big Picture in Workers Compensation Costs

2019-12-20 | Mark Walls

IUnderstanding the Big Picture in Workers Compensation Costs—Data matters, as does the market. Mark Walls reviews the factors involved.

Workers Compensation Issues

Measuring Success in Workers Compensation

2019-11-08 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Measuring Success in Workers Compensation—It's time to rely on technology, rather than intuition, per Mark Walls and Kimberley George.

Workers Compensation Issues

Cannabis in the Workplace

2019-11-08 | Joe Galusha

Confronting a New Reality: Cannabis in the Workplace—Joe Galusha looks at issues facing employers.

Personal Risk Management

Flood Insurance Road Map and Coverage Guide

2019-10-11 | Kurt Thoennessen

Flood Insurance Road Map and Coverage Guide—Kurt Thoennessen provides info to help you design a flood insurance program that fits your home's unique needs.

Environmental

In Search of Sasquatch and Construction Defect Insurance

2019-09-27 | David Dybdahl

Both are more than elusive, they are nonexistent, per David Dybdahl.

Agricultural Insurance

Farm/Ag Workers Compensation—Needed or Not?

2019-08-19 | Casey Roberts

Farm/Ag Workers Compensation—Needed or Not? -- Whether required or not, Casey Roberts explains why it's a good idea.

Personal Risk Management

Fine Art Risk Management and Insurance Planning Guide

2019-07-26 | Kurt Thoennessen

Fine Art Risk Management and Insurance Planning Guide—Kurt Thoennessen reviews strategies and techniques to protect artwork of any size or value.

Workers Compensation Issues

Social Determinants of Health and Your Workforce

2019-07-12 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Social Determinants of Health and Your Workforce—Mark Walls and Kimberly George examine how SDoH can affect the company, the culture, and the worker.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Globalization of Risk Management

2019-05-24 | Mark Walls

The Globalization of Risk Management—Risk managers must have more of a global focus. Mark Walls and Kimberly George address the issue.

Workers Compensation Issues

NCCI Annual Issues Symposium—2019

2019-05-17 | Christine Fuge

NCCI Annual Issues Symposium—2019—Technological changes, property and casualty insurance results, opioids, and robotics were some of the topics covered.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Future of Work and Workers

2019-05-03 | Mark Walls

The Future of Work and Workers—Attracting, training, maintaining, and retaining employees will continue to be a challenge, warns Mark Walls.

Workers Compensation Issues

Solving One of the Top Healthcare Costs: Musculoskeletal Disorders

2019-04-26 | Joe Galusha

Solving One of the Top Healthcare Costs: Musculoskeletal Disorders—Early functional and medical intervention matters, per Joe Galusha.

Environmental

Avoid Common Errors with Environmental Risks and Insurance

2019-04-12 | David Dybdahl

David Dybdhal shows why insurance buyers are often inadequately insured for contamination risks.

Personal Risk Management

Estate Planning Strategies That Cause Major Insurance Coverage Gaps

2019-04-12 | Kurt Thoennessen

Estate Planning Strategies That Cause Major Insurance Coverage Gaps—Insurance specialist help is invaluable, per Kurt Thoennessen.

Workers Compensation Issues

Expanding Leave-of-Absence Regulations

2019-03-29 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Expanding Leave-of-Absence Regulations—Understanding the laws and implementing leave and accommodation policies properly are key, per Mark Walls.

Environmental

Mold Damage from Allegedly Defective Work Excluded from CGL Coverage

2019-03-08 | Kent Holland

Mold Damage from Allegedly Defective Work Excluded from CGL Coverage—The homeowners pollution and mold exclusions also applied. Kent Holland explains.

Workers Compensation Issues

Workers Compensation Issues to Watch in 2019

2019-02-08 | Mark Walls

Workers Compensation Issues To Watch in 2019—Mark Walls and Kimberley George make their predictions.

Personal Risk Management

Wi-Fi Enabled Automatic Water Shutoff Devices Are a Win-Win

2019-01-24 | Kurt Thoennessen

Wi-Fi Enabled Automatic Water Shut-Off Devices Are a Win-Win—Insureds, insurers, and agents can benefit, according to Kurt Thoennessen.

Environmental

Avoid Insurance Broker Professional Liability Losses from Environmental Risk

2019-01-11 | David Dybdahl

Dave Dybdahl describes a 4-step loss prevention protocol.

Environmental

When It's Too Late To Buy Pollution Legal Liability Insurance

2019-01-04 | Jeff Slivka

When It's Too Late To Buy Pollution Legal Liability Insurance—The message from Jeff Slivka is it's imperative to initiate the process as soon as possible.

Workers Compensation Issues

InsurTech: Revolution, Evolution, or Hype?

2018-12-21 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

InsurTech: Revolution, Evolution, or Hype?—Mark Walls and Kim George describe how new technology is being used to eliminate losses by removing risks.

Personal Risk Management

Personal Umbrella Coverage Road Map

2018-11-02 | Kurt Thoennessen

Personal Umbrella Coverage Road Map—Kurt Thoennessen answers basic questions asked about personal risk management and umbrella insurance.

Environmental

Pollution Exclusion Applied to Lead-Based Paint

2018-10-26 | Kent Holland

Pollution Exclusion Applied to Lead-Based Paint—Georgia's interpretation applied, not Maryland's. Kent Holland relates the case.

Personal Risk Management

Crafting the Right Coverage for Uber and Lyft Drivers

2018-10-26 | Robin K Olson

Crafting the Right Coverage for Uber and Lyft Drivers—Learn how best to insure clients who work for ridesharing companies.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Future of Workers Compensation Claims Handling

2018-10-26 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

The Future of Workers Compensation: People, Places, and Things—Mark Walls and Kimberley George discuss what's here and what's coming.

Workers Compensation Issues

Integrated Optics: Workers Compensation Cost Management

2018-10-24 | Joe Galusha

Integrated Optics: Workers Compensation Cost Management—Learn how combined data sets are being used, per Joe Galusha.

Personal Lines Insurance

What Exactly Is Actual Cash Value? Better Yet, How Do You Calculate It?

2018-09-21 | Mike McCracken

Why are there so many problems surrounding the issue of ACV at claim time? Mike McCracken explores the reasons in various jurisdictions.

Workers Compensation Issues

Workers Compensation Residual Market

2018-09-21 | Christine Fuge

Learn the types of residual market mechanisms available in the various states, including information about coverages, contacts, and factors to consider.

Environmental

Preventive Environmental Measures Ruled Not Insured Damages

2018-09-07 | Kent Holland

Preventive Environmental Measures Ruled Not Insured Damages—Migration of acid drainage from a coal mine is not unexpected. Kent Holland relates the case.

Workers Compensation Issues

Workplace Violence Assessment and Response

2018-09-07 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Workplace Violence Assessment and Response—Mark Walls and Kimberley George look at all the issues employers face.

Workers Compensation Issues

Workforce Well-Being: Bridging Health and Productivity

2018-08-10 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Workforce Well-Being: Bridging Health and Productivity. Developing a well-being program can be challenging, but Mark Walls and Kimberly George explain why its worth it.

Agricultural Insurance

Farmers Do Need Cyber Insurance

2018-08-03 | Casey Roberts

Casey Roberts looks at possible cyber-loss exposures facing the agricultural community and the need for cyber insurance.

Workers Compensation Issues

Challenges Posed by Aging and Unhealthy Employees

2018-08-03 | Joe Galusha

Challenges Posed by Aging and Unhealthy Employees—Forward-thinking organizations can help increase worker health and well-being, per Joe Galusha.

Personal Risk Management

Renovations Can Cause Homeowners Insurance Coverage Gaps

2018-07-27 | Kurt Thoennessen

Renovations Can Cause Homeowners Insurance Coverage Gaps—Major risks exist when loss strikes a house being remodeled. Kurt Thoennessen explains.

Environmental

The Sudden and Accidental Pollution Coverage Myth

2018-06-15 | David Dybdahl

Learn the history, problems, litigation, and solutions for accidental pollution coverage from David Dybdahl.

Workers Compensation Issues

NCCI Annual Issues Symposium—2018

2018-06-01 | Christine Fuge

NCCI Annual Issues Symposium—2018—Technological changes, property and casualty insurance results, medical marijuana, and opioids are some of the topics covered.

Personal Risk Management

Personal Cyber-Security Planning Guide

2018-04-27 | Kurt Thoennessen

Cyber Security—Not Just for Big Business—Assess your personal risk of cyber crime, and learn some ways to handle it from Kurt Thoennessen.

Workers Compensation Issues

Integrated Disability Management

2018-04-20 | Joe Galusha

Integrated Disability Management—Joe Galusha discusses return-to-work issues and well-constructed physical demands assessments.

Workers Compensation Issues

Impact of Natural Disasters on Risk Management

2018-04-13 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Impact of Natural Disasters on Risk Management—Mark Walls and Kimberly George explain how you can be well prepared for most emergencies.

Environmental

Insuring Farmers for Environmental Damage Claims

2018-03-16 | David Dybdahl

Specialized insurance is needed for pollution-related exposures, per David Dybdahl.

Environmental

Contractors Pollution Liability Update

2018-03-16 | Jeff Slivka

Contractors Pollution Liability Update—Still growing in popularity, Jeff Slivkadetails the components, market, and prospects.

Workers Compensation Issues

Alternatives to Opioids for Chronic Pain Management

2018-03-16 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Alternatives to Opioids for Chronic Pain Management—Mark Walls and Kimberly George look at new ways to address pain.

Workers Compensation Issues

2018 Workers Compensation Issues To Watch

2018-02-09 | Kimberly George, Mark Walls

2018 Workers Compensation Issues To Watch—From healthcare to pain management to cyber to fraud, Mark Walls and Kimberly George provide their thoughts.

Environmental Risk Management

Desire To Protect Assets Drives CPL Buyers

2018-02-02 | Jeff Slivka

Desire To Protect Assets Drives CPL Buyers—Purchases are expected to rise over the next 2 to 3 years, per Jeff Slivka.

Workers Compensation Issues

Bucking Traditional Litigation Management in Workers Compensation

2018-02-02 | Joe Galusha

Bucking Traditional Litigation Management in Workers Compensation—Aon says the shift is away from hourly rates and toward performance metrics.

Environmental

Insuring Indoor Environment Risks in Commercial Property

2018-01-19 | David Dybdahl

David Dybdahl examines pollution/fungi/mold/bacteria risks and solutions.

Environmental

Continuous/Progressive Exclusion Bars Coverage

2018-01-05 | Kent Holland

Continuous/Progressive exclusion Bars Coverage—Kent Holland relates a recent California water intrusion case.

Personal Risk Management

10 Steps to a Well-Designed HO 6 Policy

2017-11-10 | Jack Hungelmann

10 Steps to a Well-Designed HO-6 Policy—In an update to his 2012 article, Jack Hungelmann reviews the problems and solutions of HO 6 insurance policies.

Workers Compensation Issues

Managing Volatility in Catastrophic and Medically Complex Cases

2017-10-13 | Joe Galusha

Managing Volatility in Catastrophic and Medically Complex Cases—Aon examines how to drive better outcomes for catastrophic injuries.

Environmental

Avoiding Insurance Coverage Litigation for Pollution Losses

2017-09-22 | David Dybdahl

Buying true environmental insurance can reduce lawsuits, per Dave Dybdhal.

Workers Compensation Issues

Mental Health and Well-Being in Workers Compensation

2017-09-15 | Kimberly, George,, Mark, Walls

Mental Health and Well-Being in Workers Compensation -- Kimberly George and Mark Walls discuss these costly health challenges.

Workers Compensation Issues

Escaping from the Land of Big Data

2017-07-28 | Joe Galusha

Escaping from the Land of Big Data—Joe Galusha shows the importance of leveraging data more effectively in workers compensation programs.

Environmental

Mold Tops Environmental Impairment Policy Claims

2017-06-30 | David Dybdahl

Dave Dybdahl looks at increases in mold and bacteria-related losses and ways to cover them.

Workers Compensation Issues

NCCI Annual Issues Symposium—2017

2017-06-16 | Christine Fuge

Summary of pertinent information from the 2017 NCCI Annual Issues Symposium.

Personal Risk Management

In Praise of Personal Umbrella Policies

2017-06-02 | Jack Hungelmann

Selecting the right umbrella policy can be daunting. Jack Hungelmann provides guidance.

Agricultural Insurance

Back to Insurance Basics

2017-04-21 | Casey Roberts

Sometimes it's important to review the fundamentals of insurance. Casey Roberts takes a look.

Workers Compensation Issues

Workers Compensation Treatment Guidelines: Obstacles and Opportunities

2017-04-21 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

Workers Compensation Treatment Guidelines—Mark Walls and Kim George explain the obstacles and benefits of developing common-sense guidelines.

Environmental

Avoid Common Mistakes That Lead to Uninsured Environmental Loss

2017-03-31 | David Dybdahl

Dave Dybdahl warns against ignoring the effects of pollution exclusions and the environmental insurance market.

Personal Risk Management

Traversing Your Career Path: Apprentice, Journeyman, or Master

2017-02-17 | Paul Farrell

Wherever you are on your career path, it's important to mentor, invest in new trainees, and also capitalize on the graying workforce.

Personal Lines Insurance

The Future of Personal Lines Insurance

2017-02-03 | Robin K Olson

Michael Hill explains how this option can facilitate cleanups that otherwise could take years just to begin.

Workers Compensation Issues

Workers Compensation Issues to Watch

2017-02-03 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

2017 presents challenges to employers/insurers. Learn 20 workers compensation issues as discussed in the "Out Front Ideas with Kimberly and Mark" webinar.

Agricultural Insurance

Agritainment Redux

2017-01-20 | Casey Roberts

Learn more about agritainment, particularly two new ISO forms Agritainment—Property FP 05 05 04 16 and Agritainment—Liability FL 05 01 04 16

Personal Risk Management

Uber and Lyft: Insuring the Drivers

2017-01-20 | Jack Hungelmann

Don't forget the downside of driving for a ridesharing company. Learn the risks and the possible solutions that are currently available.

Environmental

Environmental Risks and Insurance: Looking Back and Forward

2017-01-13 | David Dybdahl

David Dybdahl examines the environmental insurance marketplace in 2016, and offers predictions for this year and beyond.

Personal Risk Management

Driver Safety for Meal Delivery Operations

2016-10-21 | Paul Farrell

This article emphasizes the importance of having a strong business auto safety program to assure that delivering meals to customers goes smoothly.

Environmental

Lead-Based Paint Is a "Pollutant" within CGL Pollution Exclusion

2016-10-07 | Kent Holland

A recent case applies CGL definition of "pollutant" broadly to include potential contaminant situations.

Environmental

A Big Picture on Environmental Insurance

2016-07-01 | David Dybdahl

David Dybdahl provides the environmental insurance issues (risks, markets, forms, litigation) and offers solutions.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Future of Workers Compensation Healthcare Delivery

2016-04-01 | Kimberly, George,, Mark, Walls

A network for total employee health can increase medical control and reduce costs.

Workers Compensation Issues

20 Workers Compensation Issues To Watch

2016-03-04 | Mark Walls, Kimberly George

20 Workers Compensation Issues to Watch -- In this webinar, Mark Walls and Kimberly George discuss important, current topics.

Environmental

Fixed-Price Contracts Using Cost-Cap Alternatives for Environmental Cleanup

2016-02-12 | Michael O Hill

Michael Hill explains how this option can facilitate cleanups that otherwise could take years just to begin.

Agricultural Insurance

When Farming and Entertainment Meet, It Ain't "Farming"

2016-01-22 | Casey Roberts

Farms aren't just for farming any more. Casey Roberts examines the risks to the farm owner.

Personal Risk Management

Insurance Loss Control and the Hippocratic Oath

2016-01-22 | Paul Farrell

Paul Farrell extrapolates on the distinctive roles of the loss control professional—as coach, inspector, auditor, and consultant.

Environmental

Environmental Insurance: Just the Facts

2015-10-02 | David Dybdahl

David Dybdahl advises insurance producers to seek out qualified help to match the environmental coverage needs of the customer with an appropriate EIL policy.

Environmental

A User's Guide to Pollution Exclusions and Environmental Insurance

2015-09-25 | David Dybdahl

Many don't understand their need for environmental insurance. David Dybdahl explains the risks and provides a field guide for agents/brokers.

Environmental

Damages from Natural Gas Pipe Explosion Covered

2015-09-11 | Kent Holland

Where leak creates fire, subsequent explosion is caused by a pollution condition covered under CPL policy. Kent Holland relates the case.

Environmental

CGL Pollution Exclusion Bars Coverage for Insulation Injuries

2015-08-14 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland relates a recent case involving the inhalation of pollutants allegedly released during installation.

Environmental

Avoiding Common Insurance Certificate Errors

2015-07-17 | David Dybdahl

While insurance regulators and professional organizations have focused on creating clarity, Dave Dybdahl says they have done anything but.

Environmental

State Supreme Court Changes the Game on Pollution Exclusions and Environmental Insurance

2015-03-01 | David Dybdahl

The Wisconsin Supreme Court has muddied contaminated waters, so to speak. Dave Dybdahl relates the cases and their implications.

Environmental

Insurance Coverage for Losses Arising from the Ebola Virus

2014-12-01 | David Dybdahl

Coverage may exist in general liability and property insurance policies that would not be there for fungi and bacteria contamination. David Dybdahl explains.

Personal Lines Claims

The Claims Professional as Problem Solver

2014-11-01 | Elise Farnham

Elise Farnham provides six tips to help resolve claim situations in an efficient and economical manner.

Environmental

Contractors Environmental Liability Insurance: Claims-Made versus Occurrence

2014-07-01 | David Dybdahl

There is much debate over the best trigger for contractors environmental liability insurance. David Dybdahl clears up the confusion.

Environmental

Building Owner Not Barred by "Waiver of Subrogation" Clause from Seeking Damages Against Contractors for Diesel Leak Harming "Nonwork" Property

2014-04-01 | Kent Holland

An AIA waiver of subrogation does not limit the owner's right to seek recovery for contractors' damage to non-work. Kent Holland relates a recent case.

Environmental

Chemical Spill in West Virginia: Where Does Liability Stop When Contamination Rolls Downhill?

2014-03-28 | Rodney J Taylor

While interesting to understand how it happened, Rod Taylor explains that learning why it occurred and the lessons are more important.

Environmental

Rational CPL Insurance Specifications

2014-03-01 | David Dybdahl

Dave Dybdahl describes the evolution of contractors pollution liability insurance and provides detailed specs.

Environmental

Train Derailment Pollution Releases

2014-02-01 | Rodney J Taylor

Several recent railway accidents involving crude oil shipments raise questions about safety and the ability to cover losses. Rodney Taylor explains.

Environmental

Duty To Defend Environmental Claims

2013-11-01 | Rodney J Taylor

Whether something constitutes a "claim" for purposes of the duty to defend can cut both ways. Rodney Taylor explains.

Personal Lines Claims

Evaluating Bodily Injury Claims—Back Injuries

2013-10-01 | Elise Farnham

Claims professionals need to conduct a thorough investigation, per Elise Farnham.

Personal Lines Claims

Evaluating Bodily Injury Claims—The Effects of Traumatic Injuries

2013-07-01 | Elise Farnham

Elise Farnham explains the importance of psychosomatic medicine and the impact of emotions on the healing process.

Personal Lines Claims

Evaluating Bodily Injury Claims: Consideration Based on the Type of Injury—Fractures

2013-06-01 | Elise Farnham

Assess the extent of injury, health of the injured party, and potential for permanent disability, per Elise Farnham.

Personal Lines Claims

Evaluating Bodily Injury Claims: Consideration Based on the Type of Injury—Wounds

2013-01-01 | Elise Farnham

Personal injury wounds vary. Elise Farnham discusses what should be considered when evaluating these injuries.

Environmental

Hydraulic Fracturing Damages Excluded by CGL Pollution Exclusion

2012-10-01 | Kent Holland

The limited pollution coverage available by endorsement is not sufficient to manage hydraulic fracturing risks. Kent Holland relates a recent case.

Personal Lines Claims

Claims: There's an App for That, or Is There?

2012-07-07 | Elise Farnham

Elise Farnham develops ideas for mobile phone applications for insurance claims adjusters.

Environmental

CGL Absolute Pollution Exclusion Barred Coverage for Chinese Drywall Damages

2012-06-01 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland relates a case holding that reduced sulfur gases are a pollutant dispersed into the atmosphere.

Personal Risk Management

Insuring Liability Risks When Motor Homes or Trailers Are Used as a Secondary Residence

2012-06-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Using your motor home as a second residence? Jack Hungelmann advises buying cheap but effective insurance.

Environmental

Professional Liability Insurance for Construction Projects

2012-04-01 | Rodney J Taylor

Rodney Taylor discusses options for insuring claims arising out of the work of design professionals.

Personal Risk Management

Comparing Auto-Owners Stand-Alone versus Fully Supported Personal Umbrella Policies

2012-03-30 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann compares the umbrella policies offered by Auto-Owners Insurance.

Environmental

Homeowners Insurance Excludes Chinese Drywall Damage

2012-02-01 | Kent Holland

Court grants homeowners insurer summary judgment, per Kent Holland, based on several exclusions.

Personal Risk Management

Personal Umbrella Insurance 101

2012-02-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann answers some basic questions about personal umbrella policies.

Environmental

Asbestos Damages Excluded under Condo Association's Property Policy

2012-01-01 | Kent Holland

Court rejects attempt to shoehorn environmental pollution damages into policy coverage. Kent Holland relates the case.

Environmental

Insuring Completed Operations Pollution Risks

2012-01-01 | Rodney J Taylor

Construction contract errors can result in uninsured pollution losses. Rodney Taylor explains how CPL policies can help.

Personal Lines Claims

Personal Lines Insurance Is Getting More Personal

2012-01-01 | Elise Farnham

Technological advances, says Elise Farnham, are making the claims process more personal for insureds

Personal Lines Claims

Plaintiff Duties in Personal Lines Claims

2011-11-01 | Elise Farnham

In personal lines insurance claims, plaintiffs must prove that actual damages were proximately caused by defendant's negligence (IRMI.com article)

Environmental

Emergency Response Costs in Pollution Liability Policies—How To Avoid Making an Emergency a Disaster

2011-08-01 | Rodney J Taylor

Maximize the chance for a full recovery of emergency response costs by following these steps pre-disaster. (IRMI.com article)

Personal Lines Claims

Getting to the Bottom Line—Determination of Damages

2011-08-01 | Elise Farnham

Personal lines insurance claims can be difficult to quantify. Learn types of damages and factors to consider. (IRMI.com article)

Personal Risk Management

Personal Risk Management: The Insurance Audit

2011-08-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Personal insurance audits involve examining the current program, reviewing all contracts, and producing a risk management audit report. (IRMI.com article)

Personal Risk Management

Homecare Workers: Identifying and Managing Risks

2011-06-11 | Jack Hungelmann

Whether hiring an individual or going with an agency, risks exist. Jack Hungelmann explains.

Personal Risk Management

Managing the Risks of Groundwater Damage

2011-05-01 | Jack Hungelmann

April showers bring May floods. Jack Hungelmann examines insurance and noninsurance strategies to counter groundwater damage.

Personal Lines Claims

Black Swans on the Horizon: Expecting the Unexpected

2011-04-01 | Elise Farnham

To effectively manage future losses, Elise Farnham stresses that claims professionals and their organizations must ask, 'What if?'

Personal Risk Management

Comparing Stand-Alone Personal Umbrella Policies

2011-04-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Comparing and Analyzing Stand-Alone Personal Umbrella Policies—Read examples of large covered claims, learn who needs this coverage, and see a comparison of nine different personal umbrella forms.

Environmental

Judgment Day Comes in Global Warming Litigation

2011-02-01 | Rodney J Taylor

The Supreme Court will hear a landmark case on climate change emissions. Rod Taylor provides the details.

Personal Risk Management

Collision Damage Waivers When Renting a Vehicle: To Buy or Not To Buy?

2011-02-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann gives 10 reasons why you should decline.

Personal Lines Claims

The Art and Skill of Analyzing Coverage

2011-01-01 | Elise Farnham

For the personal lines claims professional, there is no substitute for a systematic and logical approach to coverage analysis. Elise Farnham explains.

Environmental

CGL Pollution Exclusion Applies to Dust and Diesel Fumes

2010-12-11 | Kent Holland

Insureds get the coverage they bargained for, according to this case as related by Kent Holland Jr.

Environmental

Mold from a Covered Concurrent Cause Still Excluded

2010-11-01 | Kent Holland

A court rules no coverage where an anti-concurrent causation clause exists. Kent Holland explains.

Personal Lines Claims

Stress-Free Claims Adjusting

2010-08-01 | Elise Farnham

While there is no single panacea for dealing with stress, Elise Farnham offers a variety of techniques that can help.

Environmental

CGL Policy Held to Cover Oil Spill Cleanup Costs

2010-04-01 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland examines a case where the exception to the pollution exclusion makes common law pollution damages covered.

Environmental

An Update on Chinese Drywall Claims

2010-04-01 | Rodney J Taylor

Rod Taylor reviews the current status of these claims, examining factors relevant to the cases being heard in federal and state courts.

Personal Risk Management

Insuring "Zipcars"

2010-04-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Car-sharing may be good for the environment, but Jack Hungelmann warns it can raise personal auto insurance concerns.

Personal Risk Management

Reducing Umbrella Risks by Having One Agent

2010-03-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Keep your personal liability coverage with one insurer or one agent, advises Jack Hungelmann.

Environmental

Green Building Projects and Environmental Risk

2010-01-01 | Jeff Slivka

Calling a property or structure green doesn't mean it's free of environmental liability, warns Jeff Slivka.

Personal Lines Claims

The Art of Strategic Negotiation

2010-01-01 | Elise Farnham

Becoming a skilled negotiator is vital to claims adjusters. Elise Farnham provides tips.

Personal Risk Management

Personal Risk Management—An Alternative to Insurance as Usual

2010-01-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann thinks insurance agents with broad experience in personal lines should sell their experience, not just policies.

Environmental

CGL Pollution Exclusion Bars Coverage for Injury from Carbon Monoxide Released from Heater

2009-12-01 | Kent Holland

The Fifth Circuit upholds the exclusion where fumes from a heater caused birth defects. Kent Holland relates the case.

Personal Lines Claims

"Green" Building Claim Implications

2009-10-01 | Elise Farnham

Green construction has significance for loss adjusters even when their insurer does not issue green policies. Elise Farnham explains.

Personal Risk Management

Creating a Personal Umbrella Coverage Checklist

2009-09-12 | Jack Hungelmann

An umbrella comparison form and checklist can help you pick the best umbrella policy for you. Jack Hungelmann shows how.

Personal Risk Management

Managing the Risks of a Vacant Home

2009-07-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann urges those with empty homes to consider risk management strategies and insurance implications.

Personal Risk Management

Health Insurance Advice for the Newly Laid Off

2009-06-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann outlines the new COBRA subsidy program and Q A for those scrambling to insure their families.

Environmental

No Coverage in Homeowner's Policy for Mold Damage from Water Pipe Leak

2009-05-01 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland shows how the issue of whether the mold exclusion is ambiguous continues to be litigated with surprisingly different results.

Personal Lines Insurance

The Underwriting Submission—Homeowners Insurance

2009-03-01 | Elise Farnham

Elise Farnham shows how important it is for producers to focus on understanding all of the risk exposures.

Personal Lines Claims

Avoiding Bad Faith Allegations in Excess Loss Situations

2009-01-01 | Elise Farnham

Elise Farnham discusses steps claim professionals can take to avoid bad faith situations and minimize damage if they encounter them.

Personal Lines Claims

Personal Lines Property Loss Adjusting—Achieving Excellence

2008-10-01 | Elise Farnham

The steps involved to achieve claims closure involve knowing the policy, the contract, textbook answers, and alternatives. Elise Farnham explains.

Personal Risk Management

Risk Management for Weddings

2008-08-16 | Jack Hungelmann

Weddings bring with them special risks not always covered by auto, home, or even umbrella policies. Jack Hunglemann explains.

Environmental

Pollution Legal Liability Market Update

2008-07-01 | Jeff Slivka

Jeff Slivka expects to continue to see an expanded need for PLL insurance. Markets, coverage types, and trends are provided.

Personal Risk Management

Choosing the Best Umbrella Policy: Case Study

2008-05-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann helps a client choose among umbrella policies to best cover liability risks not covered by primary policies.

Personal Lines Insurance

Managing Personal Automobile Insurance Risks Following Death

2008-04-18 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann illustrates the coverage pitfalls facing the survivors of the deceased's personal auto policy.

Environmental

"Suits" under a 1973 CGL Insurance Policy

2008-02-01 | Richard J Scislowski

ISO did not define "suit," so courts were divided, particularly in pollution cleanup cases. Rich Scislowski explains.

Personal Risk Management

Time to Standardize Personal Umbrella Insurance Policies

2008-02-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann points out the problems of not having standardized umbrella policies.

Environmental

Common Law Exceptions to the 1973 "Owned Property" Exclusion

2008-01-01 | Richard J Scislowski

Courts poked so many holes in the exclusion that it hardly excluded anything. Rich Scislowski explains the ISO solutions.

Personal Lines Insurance

Demystifying Auto Rental Insurance

2007-12-08 | Mike McCracken

IRMI's Mike McCracken examines rental car coverage provided by the personal auto policy (PAP) and compares what some rental companies offer.

Environmental

Epoxy Fumes Are Unambiguously Excluded from Coverage as "Pollutants" under the CGL Total Pollution Exclusion

2007-11-01 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland relates a case on the CGL total pollution exclusion and the definition of "pollutants," "discharge," "dispersal," "seepage," "migration," "release," and "escape."

Personal Risk Management

Insurance for the California Wildfires

2007-11-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann answers personal lines coverage and claims questions that arise when your home is destroyed by fire.

Personal Risk Management

Creating and Using a Personal Umbrella Comparison Form

2007-06-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann shows the process he uses to create a comparison spreadsheet on different personal umbrella policies.

Environmental

Pollution Exclusion Bars Coverage for Damage Caused by Dirt and Rocks

2007-03-01 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland looks at the trend of courts upholding the CGL pollution exclusion, even when the "pollutant" is a naturally occurring substance rather than a man-made chemical.

Environmental

Pollution Exclusions in CGL Policy Bars Coverage for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

2007-02-01 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland shows how identical facts can result in completely different rulings, depending on the jurisdiction.

Personal Risk Management

Managing the Risks of a Household Move

2007-02-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann looks at the risks of moving from one house to another, and provides strategies for handling them.

Environmental

Mold Excluded in Homeowner's Policy Is Not Covered as an Ensuing Loss of Leaking Water

2007-01-01 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland relates a Texas case holding no coverage for an excluded category of loss that follows from a covered loss.

Environmental

Naturally Occurring Hazards: They Can Be "Hazardous" to Your Contractors Pollution Liability Coverage

2007-01-01 | Jeff Slivka

Buying a CPL policy is a very sound alternative for financing environmental loss, but there are pitfalls. Jeff Slivka explains.

Environmental

State Leadership in Promoting Insurance-Based Solutions to Brownfield Redevelopment Challenges

2006-11-01 | Michael O Hill

Jeff Kehne and Michael Hill discuss environmental insurance programs at the state level.

Environmental

Financing Environmental Loss with Environmental Insurance

2006-10-01 | Jeff Slivka

Jeff Slivka offers an introduction to the various products available to the many different exposures in the many different industries throughout the country.

Personal Risk Management

Managing the Townhouse/Condominium Unit Owner Risk

2006-08-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann relays the problems condo owners face when trying to obtain seamless property and liability insurance.

Personal Lines Insurance

Insuring the Home-Based Business (Part 3)

2006-07-01 | Robin K Olson

In Part 3 of this series, Rob Olson looks at the proper endorsements and policies needed to adequately protect home-based businesses.

Personal Lines Insurance

Insuring the Home-Based Business (Part 2)

2006-06-01 | Robin K Olson

In this second of three articles, Rob Olson looks at court cases involving homeowners policy restrictions and what constitutes a "business."

Personal Lines Insurance

Insuring the Home-Based Business (Part 1)

2006-05-20 | Robin K Olson

In this first of three articles, Rob Olson looks at current statistics and homeowners policy restrictions.

Environmental

Mold Litigation: Expert Testimony Required to Prove Causation

2006-04-01 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland explains how expert testimony may be required to prove causation of property damages in mold cases.

Environmental

Subrogation and Intervention in Construction Defect Case Involving Water and Mold

2006-02-01 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland describes a well-reasoned court opinion that will serve as a valuable educational tool for others contemplating similar issues.

Personal Risk Management

Government Programs for Uninsurable Chronic Medical Conditions

2006-02-01 | Jack Hungelmann

Jack Hungelmann discusses available government programs and how they can fit into a long-range insurance plan.

Personal Risk Management

Insurance Products for Uninsurable Chronic Medical Conditions

2006-01-01 | Jack Hungelmann

The solution for those deemed uninsurable for most life, health, disability, and long-term care products is personal risk management. Jack Hungelmann explains.

Environmental

Absolute Pollution Exclusion in Contractors Policy Does Not Bar Coverage for Toxic Fume Injuries

2005-11-12 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland explains Nav-Its, Inc. v. Selective Insurance, span court case] where the New Jersey Supreme Court limited the pollution exclusion to hazards traditionally associated with environmentally related claims.

Environmental

Manganism?

2005-10-01 | Jeff Slivka

Jeff Slivka explains why it would be prudent for organizations to add the Manganese exposure to their overall environmental risk profile to methodically analyze the risk and manage it.

Personal Risk Management

Identity Theft: a Personal Risk Management Approach (Part 3)

2005-09-17 | Robin K Olson

In the final installation of his series on identity theft, Rob Olson examines the types of coverage offered by insurance organizations and banks, and lists other reforms that are needed to address this risk.

Environmental

Silica Claim Barred by Total Pollution Exclusion in CGL Policy

2005-08-01 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland summarizes a California court decision rejecting the argument that by adding an endorsement explicitly excluding asbestos, the insurer had to do the same for silica.

Personal Risk Management

Identity Theft: A Personal Risk Management Approach (Part 2)

2005-08-01 | Robin K Olson

What are the steps a person can take to reduce the chance of identity theft? If a theft occurs, what steps should be taken to mitigate the size and scope of the loss? Rob Olson provides some answers.

Personal Risk Management

Identity Theft: A Personal Risk Management Approach (Part 1)

2005-07-09 | Robin K Olson

Identity theft is the fastest growing crime in the United States today, and everyone is a potential victim. In this first of three articles, Robin Olson focuses on the risk itself.

Environmental

Broad Pollution Exclusion Is Ambiguous: Lead Covered by Policy

2005-05-01 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland reviews a New York case involving a pollution exclusion and discusses the Catch-22 situation facing insurers who want to modify their policy language to eliminate ambiguity.

Environmental

Whether Mold Cleanup Costs Are Covered Depends on Causation

2005-04-01 | Kent Holland

"When a covered event causes mold, the mold damage includes the cost of removal." Kent Holland explains this ruling by the New Jersey appellate court on a homeowner dispute.

Environmental

Silica—The Next Environmental Issue

2005-04-01 | Jeff Slivka

Silica exposure can be deadly. Jeff Slivka discusses the mineral, how it kills, the workplace hazard, and the insurance and risk management implications.

Personal Risk Management

Plugging Liability Insurance Gaps with the Personal Umbrella Policy

2005-02-01 | Jack Hungelmann

While most people buy an umbrella policy for its excess coverage, including defense costs, it has far greater value as a risk management tool. Jack Hungelmann explains.

Personal Lines Claims

Adjusting Residential House Fires

2004-10-09 | George Epps

Adjusting a house fire is a difficult endeavor under the best of circumstances. George Epps looks at fire claims where the coverage is on an actual cash value basis.

Environmental

Homeowners Policy Unambiguously Excluded Coverage for Mold

2004-10-01 | Kent Holland

Kent Holland examines a recent New Jersey court case ruling that mold was not covered as an ensuing loss due to vandalism.

Environmental

Environmental Liability Buyouts: A Developing Option

2004-08-01 | Jeff Slivka

This recent option for environmentally contaminated sites can provide a needed solution for managing known environmental liability for both buyers and sellers. David Bennink explains.

Personal Lines Claims

Residential Water Claims

2004-07-01 | George Epps

George Epps takes a look at residential water claims - what causes them, how repairs are handled, and why restoration contractors are often necessary.

Environmental

Managing the Environmental Risk from Subcontractors

2004-05-01 | Jeff Slivka

Jeff Slivka and Mitch Cohen look at environmental risks posed by the many workers on the construction site and how to adequately manage these risks.

Personal Risk Management

Managing the Nanny Risk

2004-04-01 | Jack Hungelmann

In this personal risk management column, Jack Hungelmann looks at the exposure created by the hiring of a nanny rather than using a nanny service, and offers possible solutions.

Personal Risk Management

Personal Risk Management: An Overview

2004-03-01 | Jack Hungelmann

In this new personal lines column, Insurance for Dummies author Jack Hungelmann outlines 16 commitments agents should make to provide quality services to their clients.

Personal Risk Management

Family Disaster Planning—Ten Key Ingredients

2003-09-20 | Robin K Olson

Disaster can strike when you're at home, work, school, or in the car. Develop a family disaster plan, communicate it, and stay vigilant.

Workers Compensation Issues

Workers Compensation and Medicare Conflict over Settlements Update

2003-08-01 | Jim Pocius

There are few new wrinkles with regard to new guidances. Medicare will now allow an offset of costs and fees expended to acquire Medicare approval. Jim Pocius explains.

Environmental

Insured Fixed-Price Contracts as a Means to Quantify Costs and Obtain Funds to Clean Up Contaminated Sites: the Kenosha Model

2003-04-01 | Michael O Hill

Using the Kenosha model, Michael O. Hill discusses why insured fixed-price contracts (IFCs) are often the best way to quantify and obtain cleanup funds.

Workers Compensation Issues

Illegal Employment Contracts Will Not Protect Employer with Regard to Compensability of Workers Compensation Injuries

2003-04-01 | Jim Pocius

Illegal Employment Contracts and Workers Compensation Injuries Jim Pocius examines situations where employers have attempted to limit workers compensation benefits to their employees, and the courts' response.

Personal Lines Insurance

Wedding Insurance: a Savvy Purchase?

2003-03-01 | Robin, Olson

David Shillingford describes ways to reach out to local law enforcement and ask them how you can help them be more effective in combating equipment theft.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Impact of TRIA on Workers Compensation Insurance

2003-02-18 | Christine Fuge

With the passage of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002, the landscape of workers compensation insurance has been forever altered. IRMI assesses the ramifications.

Environmental

Managing Environmental Liabilities through Contracts

2003-01-01 | Jeff Slivka

There are real and perceived environmental hazards or contamination routinely found at construction sites. In this article, Jeff Slivka explores less common provisions for managing environmental risk through contracts.

Environmental

Environmental Insurance Changes the Game for Commercial Lenders

2002-12-01 | Alan Bressler

Environmental insurance not only protects the lender's interests but help facilitate the commercial loan process. Alan Bressler and Dan Peltz explain.

Workers Compensation Issues

Changing Information Technology (Part 1)

2002-11-01 | Martin F McGavin

In the first of two articles, Martin McGavin examines new risk management information technology and illustrates its advantages.

Environmental

Environmental Risk in Retail: Exposures and Solutions

2002-10-01 | Alan Bressler

Alan Bressler examines the environmental risks in retail operations and presents the relevant risk transfer products designed to mitigate these exposures.

Environmental

The Environmental Risks of Residential Construction

2002-10-01 | Jeff Slivka

Has the emergence of mold as an insurance issue caused risk managers to lose sight of "other" environmental exposures associated with residential work? Jeff Slivka provides a list of other risk management concerns.

Workers Compensation Issues

Can Workers Agree To Waive Workers Compensation Rights in Arbitration and Waiver Agreements?

2002-10-01 | Jim Pocius

Jim Pocius provides his response to the question: Would the Federal Arbitration Act supersede any workers compensation state law and allow these cases to be arbitrated?

Environmental

A Mold Prevention Program

2002-07-01 | Jeff Slivka

Mold has become such a nightmare for owners, contractors, suppliers, everyone, that if you haven't developed a prevention program, you probably will. Jeff Slivka provides a brief outline of what a mold prevention program may look like.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Ergonomics Regulation Roller Coaster

2002-06-01 | Christine Fuge

This article reviews OSHA's efforts to implement ergonomic regulations, presents details on the current proposed voluntary program, supplies information on a new legislative challenge, and discusses a recent study dealing with the causes of loss in the workplace.

Workers Compensation Issues

Workers Compensation and Medicare Update

2002-06-01 | Jim Pocius

Jim Pocius provides an update of the problem of conflicting regulations governing workers compensation settlements to Medicare recipients.

Environmental

The Pitfalls of Accepting Contaminated Fill

2002-03-01 | Jeff Slivka

What happens when an earthwork contractor accepts fill material at the site to establish proper elevations only to discover later that the "clean fill" is anything but? Jeff Slivka provides ways to control the exposure.

Personal Lines Insurance

Credit-Based Insurance Scoring: a Simmering Debate

2002-03-01 | Robin K Olson

With consumer groups squarely and vehemently lined up against the insurers, and regulators caught in the middle, compromises on this issue are virtually assured.

Workers Compensation Issues

Achieving Workers Compensation Savings through Medical Bill Repricing

2002-02-09 | Martin F McGavin

Medical bill repricing leads to legitimate and real workers compensation savings, but it does have its drawbacks. Martin McGavin examines the process, including its strengths and weaknesses.

Workers Compensation Issues

Return to Work—A Forgotten Aspect of Workers Compensation

2002-01-01 | Jim Pocius

Jim Pocius examines trends and case law involving returning injured workers to productive lives after industrial injuries, and the importance of doing so for both employers and claimants.

Workers Compensation Issues

Three Management Processes that Help Reduce Workers Compensation Cost

2001-12-01 | Martin F McGavin

This is a risk management article on workers compensation cost containment on IRMI.com.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Continuing Impact of September 11 on Workers Compensation

2001-12-01 | Christine Fuge

It's been over 90 days since the attacks, and resulting WC payments are estimated to be over $4 billion. This article updates how the various state and insurance regulators are responding.

Environmental

Mold: The Newest Environmental Hazard

2001-09-01 | Alan Bressler

Obtaining insurance coverage for mold-related problems is difficult, with most insurers relying on pollution exclusions and/or newly added mold exclusions to deny coverage. Kevin Shane and Alan Bressler explain the basics of the problem and offer coverage solutions.

Workers Compensation Issues

Is an Unbundled Workers Compensation Program Right for Your Company?

2001-08-01 | Martin F McGavin

Most employers assume they must choose between traditional insurance or self-insurance for workers comp. Martin McGavin examines the "unbundling" option, how it works, and its advantages and disadvantages.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Workers Compensation Self-Insurance Decision

2001-08-01 | Christine Fuge

This article discusses self-insurance of workers compensation exposures.

Workers Compensation Issues

Statutes of Limitation in Workers Compensation Cases

2001-08-01 | Jim Pocius

States differ with regard to the amount of time they will allow for a claimant to file a WC claim. James Pocius discusses the variation and provides some cost saving tips for risk management.

Workers Compensation Issues

Workers Compensation and Medicare

2001-05-01 | Jim Pocius

Medicare now believes there has been an illegal shift of medical benefits from workers compensation insurers to Medicare. To stem this flow, Medicare hopes to examine all workers comp settlements, even when claimants do not qualify for Medicare benefits. See what may be in store in this controversial area.

Environmental

Introduction to ISO 14001

2001-04-01 | Jeff Slivka

With the growth of the global economy, public awareness of differences between nations' environmental programs spurred the development of an international standard for environmental sensitivity. This article examines the ISO 14001 standard, certification, and scheduled revisions.

Workers Compensation Issues

Workers Compensation and Course of Employment

2001-02-01 | Jim Pocius

Discussing the meaning of an employee being in the course of employment relating to workers compensation laws.

Environmental

Brownfield Redevelopment: A Risk versus Reward Proposition

2000-12-01 | John Hannah

The number of abandoned industrial sites across America in need of environmental remediation continues to grow. With local governments striving to curb urban sprawl and eliminate inner-city decay, and with the development of recent legislative and regulatory initiatives, these 'Brownfield' sites offer an opportunity for redevelopment. This article explains how environmental insurance and innovative risk management tools help reduce the risk and uncertainty surrounding these projects.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Employer/Employee Relationship in Workers Compensation

2000-11-01 | Jim Pocius

In these changing business times, it is often difficult to discern who the real employer is with regard to the employer/employee relationship. The traditional employer/employee relationship is being eroded as employers turn to temporary agency workers, independent contractors, and leased employees to enhance their competitive advantage. This article explains the common-law method of defining the employer/employee relationship and provides cost saving tips for risk management.

Environmental

Lenders and Environmental Liability

2000-09-01 | John Hannah

Unknown environmental problems are a far greater source of loss to lenders than fire, vandalism, theft, or title risks. This article examines the importance of environmental liability for all financial institutions and investors that hold or invest in loans where real estate is used as collateral

Workers Compensation Issues

Jurisdiction in Workers Compensation Cases

2000-09-01 | Jim Pocius

When it comes to workers compensation benefits, some states are much more generous than others. Learn how jurisdiction is determined, what problems can arise when more than one state is involved, and risk management tips for saving time and money.

Workers Compensation Issues

The Employee Leasing Decision

2000-08-01 | Christine Fuge

Employee leasing offers a variety of benefits, including a possible reduction in net expenses. However, it is not a strategy without risk. This article reviews some of the issues to assess when considering this option.

Environmental

The US Environmental Liability Insurance Market—Reaching New Frontiers

2000-05-01 | John Hannah

The number and types of environmental insurance markets and products offered has increased dramatically in recent years. This article looks at the trends and events surrounding the market and provides a snapshot of the current environmental insurance marketplace.

Environmental

Hidden Environmental Exposures of the Construction Industry

2000-03-01 | Jeff Slivka

Jeff Slivka explains that contractors must open their eyes and realize that there are environmental exposures in their day-to-day operations. You don't have to be an environmental contractor to have an environmental exposure!