Squeezing Blood From The Uninsured Turnip: Suspension of Driver’s Licenses

Subrogating against uninsured drivers is one of the less glamorous aspects of automobile insurance subrogation. It is the pariah of our industry and could easily be featured on the Discovery Channel series, Dirty Jobs. Initiating subrogation against uninsured and judgment-proof drivers is often nothing more than an exercise in futility, and frequently involves nothing more…

Read more

Debunking Corporate Successor Liability Defenses One Case At A Time

Many of our readers know how frustrating it can be to secure a judgment against a tortfeasor company only to see that company close down. However, an increasingly common scenario sees that same “company” resurrect itself as a new company shortly afterwards. Normally, the law protects successor corporations from the liabilities of its predecessors, and…

Read more

Matthiesen, Wickert & Lehrer, S.C. Wins Out-Of-Network Litigation In Colorado

While Matthiesen, Wickert & Lehrer, S.C. (MWL) attorneys are actively pursuing subrogation and reimbursement claims around the country for health insurers and plans alike, we are increasingly being asked to defend clients from out-of-network lawsuits by providers. These out-of-network or “usual, customary and reasonable charges” cases are not novel. In recent memory, these claims have…

Read more

Indiana Announces Subrogation-Friendly Rule When Landlord’s Carrier Seeks Recovery Against Negligent Tenant

An Indiana Court of Appeals decision issued on October 28, 2014 changes the landscape of landlord/tenant subrogation in the Hoosier State. For years, Indiana allowed an insurer to bring a subrogation claim against a tenant. LBM Realty, LLC v. Mannia, 981 N.E.2d 569 (Ind. App. 2012). A 1996 Court of Appeals decision appeared to announce…

Read more

Arbitration Forums Makes Rule Changes Related to Arbitrating Product Liability Claims Effective January 1, 2015

Many of our clients are members of Arbitration Forums, Inc. (AF), a nonprofit, private arbitration organization that facilitates arbitration hearings between its members. Companies can be a part of a number of different programs, including arbitrating property damage disputes. By joining AF, a member company signs a Property Subrogation Arbitration Agreement (Property Program). The signatory…

Read more

Use Of Red-Light Cameras In Accident Litigation

Intersection accidents represent a disproportionate share of vehicle crashes and, therefore, a disproportionate share of litigated cases. Credible witnesses are the key to winning cases, but credible witnesses are rare, can be cross-examined, and are often reluctant to cooperate. The growing ubiquitous presence of red-light cameras and traffic surveillance are beginning to serve as rock-solid…

Read more