IBC urges driver mitigation efforts in response to headrest study
November 30, 2004 by Canadian UnderwriterResponding to the release of a multi-national study of vehicle headrest designs, the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) says consumers must also play a role in their own safety.The study, which included tests by the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway…
What’s new: In brief (November 28, 2004)
November 28, 2004 by Canadian UnderwriterA hearing by the New York Insurance Department into possible violations by brokerage Marsh has been postponed. The hearing, originally set for November 26 has now been moved into next year, rescheduled for January 18. The reason for the delay…
ICBC investigations lead to three fraud pleas
November 21, 2004 by Canadian UnderwriterTwo recent investigations by the Insurance Corp. of B.C. (ICBC) have led to three separate people pleading guilty to filing fraudulent claims.In the first case, Cameron Louis Simpson of Surrey pled guilty and was ordered to pay $2,875 in fines…
MPI tightens up driver safety program
November 21, 2004 by Canadian UnderwriterManitoba Public Insurance (MPI) is tightening up its driver safety program, hoping for early intervention to change driver behavior.Under the “Driver Improvement and Control Program”, MPI monitors driver behavior using a system of demerit points for collisions, traffic convictions, etc.,…
Fraud Forum: Championing Victims
November 1, 2004 Vikki SpencerInsurance fraud and related crimes have too often been perceived as “victimless”, but those on the front-line of crime prevention say nothing could be further from the truth. Speakers at the Annual Toronto Fraud Forum say the victims of insurance crimes are widespread and the consequences go well beyond mounting claims costs.
What’s new: In brief (October 14, 2004)
October 14, 2004 by Canadian UnderwriterAlong with other changes now in place in Alberta’s auto insurance system, the government this week said a new complaint-handling procedure is in place. The system works in conjunction with the General Insurance OmbudService (GIO) and encourages consumers with a…
Views (September 01, 2004)
September 1, 2004 by Canadian UnderwriterThe friends of Mike Yang are staging two events to raise funds for this industry veteran, who is recovering from a serious illness experienced last fall. Funds are needed to help Mike and his family modify their home and vehicle…
The Ethical Choice in Risk Management
September 1, 2004 Garry McDonellEthical dilemmas are a reality in the risk management profession. How prepared are you as risk manager – as well as the organization that you work for – in responding to the ethical “gray areas” of operational decisions?
ICBC fraud charges stick in two cases
August 29, 2004 by Canadian UnderwriterIn two separate cases, the Insurance Corporation of B.C. has seen drivers plead guilty to providing false information to the public insurer.Salvatore Figliuzzi of Coquitlam, BC, received a fine of $800, and ordered to pay ICBC $1,074 in restitution. He…
What’s new: In brief (August 17, 2004)
August 17, 2004 by Canadian UnderwriterToronto-based Accident Support Services International Ltd. (ASSI) has launched its “Collision Reporting and Occurrence Management System” or CROMS II, to allow brokers and insurers to view all post-collision information for policyholders from their desktops. The system, ASSI says, will not…
Views (July 01, 2004)
July 1, 2004 by Canadian UnderwriterThe Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is taking its “Rest up! Save your neck” program to New Brunswick this summer, with university students across the province educating drivers on proper headrest adjustment. Sixteen students will staff exhibits at community events…
Trucking seminar: U.S. litigation trends coming to Canada soon
June 15, 2004 by Canadian UnderwriterU.S.-style litigation against long-haul trucking companies is “creeping into Canada”, says lawyer Paul Iacono of York Street Dispute Resolution Group. Iacono made the comments as part of a seminar on transportation litigation sponsored by Kingsway General Insurance Co. in Mississauga…