Most people think of archaeology as it pertains to items of historic value – gravesites, buildings, artifacts and the like. They tell a story about a specific period in time and give us insight into what transpired many years ago.
In insurance, long-tail environmental claims create coverage questions that other types of claims may not. When a claim arises years after an environmental event occurs, determining who is liable and which responsible party will pay can take some investigating, which is where insurance archaeology comes into play. Like archaeologists who can determine what occurred somewhere hundreds of years ago, insurance archaeologists can identify the possible insureds for an impacted site, the types of coverage in place at the time, what subrogation opportunities might exist and other factors affecting liability.
This issue of Claims looks at several different types of environmental claims insurers may encounter and provides recommendations on questions to ask, areas to investigate and solutions to some challenging questions.
Looking for greatness
We also highlight Sedgwick Claims Management Services, winner of the 2017 Trailblazer Award, for their innovations in the area of claims management. Their use of technology to triage claims, respond to policyholders and keep them apprised as their claim progresses is taking customer service to a new level.
The insurance industry is constantly changing, and companies willing to utilize new technology and develop innovative processes will be the survivors. Anyone with the mentality, 'well that's the way we've always done it' won't be around in a few years.
Claims wants to recognize the trailblazers and individuals who provide outstanding service to their customers. We're accepting nominations for the 2018 Trailblazer Award, Claims Luminary of the Year and the Customer Champion Award.
Insurance professionals work hard, handle a wide variety of issues and some go to incredible lengths to serve their clients during one of the worse times of their lives. If you know someone who fits this criteria, please take a few moments to nominate them. This isn't a popularity contest, just a way to highlight the truly exceptional people who work in this remarkable industry. You can find more information at www.americasclaimsevent.com.
The winners will be announced at the America's Claims Event in Austin, Texas, June 25-27. I hope you'll plan to join us there.
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