COVID-19 Claims Impact Entire Insurance Coverage Spectrum

Summary

Now that COVID-19 has migrated across the globe, the pandemic's impact on both public health and business is triggering a barrage of insurance claims across the entire spectrum of traditional coverages. Clients are experiencing loss arising from circumstances ranging from business interruption and event cancellation to illness and death. The unique circumstances of a situation and whether the specific wording of an insurance policy will result in coverage are consequently matters of immediate concern that will have long-term effect. This article identifies the types of insurance that policyholders might pursue for coverage and the positions insureds and insurers are likely to take for and against coverage, so practitioners can consider a client's situation, address coverage weaknesses and gaps, and determine whether to litigate any coronavirus claim.