Initial impressions from the front lines indicate that, while the quantity of unimpaired claims is decreasing, the number of claimants alleging malignancies continues to rise.

The insurance industry has struggled over the last 20 years to meet the challenges posed by asbestos-related claims. Significant quantities of money have been spent to litigate or settle claims and to determine the size of the problem and how to deal with it.

Several states have enacted legislation using medical criteria to reduce and manage litigation. Following Ohio in 2004, Texas, Georgia and Florida last year and Kansas and South Carolina this year signed legislation requiring exposure to asbestos and physical impairment.

Maybe some good news and a sign that things are looking up?

This Feature item appeared in issue 110 of JTW News - November 2006

Author: Garry Nelson - Devonshire Group