In a patchwork landscape of data breach notification laws, the adage by Benjamin Franklin: Remember that time is money. Remember that credit is money has never been more true for American companies preparing for and responding to data breaches.

Is an earthquake possibly caused by fracking covered? What is a thermal shock, and is it covered? This and more in the FC&S mailbag.

Is a newly purchased car an additional auto or a replacement vehicle if the insured fails to sell her current car? Can an insurer deny coverage for snow damage under a water, ice exclusion? This and more in the FC&S mailbag.

Is an insured who rents his home but still visits regularly covered as an occupant of the residence? Can grease be considered a pollutant? This and more in the FC&S mailbag.

Is a sold vehicle still a covered auto if the owner did not transfer the title to his name? Does a homeowners policy respond if a heating service overfills the oil tank? This and more in Wednesdays mailbag.

Examining legal implications associated with the duty to defend an insured. What happens when the complaint includes other allegations obviously excluded by the policy?

Here, we examine typical policy language and the legal implications associated with the duty to defend an insured. What happens when the complaint includes other allegations obviously excluded by the policy?