Depositing Policy Limits Does Not End the Duty to Defend

An Oregon federal court revisited a common coverage question that comes up from time to time: When indemnity for a loss is reasonably clear, can an insurer limit its defense expense exposure by simply depositing the policy limits with the court? The answer, according to this court, and most other courts around the country, is no.[1]

The liability policy in U.S. Fire Ins. V. Mother Earth School contained the commonly-found insuring agreement language which provides, in relevant part, that an insurer’s right and duty …

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Wildfire Smoke Constitutes “Direct Physical Loss”

An Oregon federal court decision deemed “air” physical property covered by a property insurance policy, in holding that wildfire smoke infiltration of an outdoor theater caused a physical loss of property.

The policyholder, an outdoor theater, claimed it suffered a property loss because it had to cancel several shows when smoke from nearby wildfires filled its audience seating and stage areas. Although the wildfires caused ash and soot to accumulate on outdoor seating and flooring, and in ventilation, lighting and electronic systems in the interior …

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