Attorney James J. Wrynn, who was recently named head of New York's state-run workers' compensation insurer, is now in line to be the state's new insurance superintendent, NU Online has learned.

Property and casualty insurance companies grew more popular with New York agents during the first half of the year, according to survey results released by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New York.

Golf ball-sized hail -- along with strong winds -- recently caused damages across the Denver area that totaled $350 million in insured losses.

Allstate Corp. reported second quarter net income soared to $389 million, compared with $25 million for the period last year, despite record catastrophe losses.

Hannover Re reported second quarter net income of EUR202.9 million ($291.1 million at current exchange rate), an over 100 percent increase compared to 2008 net income for the period of EUR100.8 million ($144.6 million).

Zurich Financial Services reported second quarter net income of $892 million, a 31 percent decline from $1.3 billion for the period in 2008. However, the company noted the figure is a 147 percent increase over the previous quarter's results.

Calif. Assemblywoman Mary Hayashi has proposed a bill that would allow insurers to suggest using "preferred" body shops at any time during the claim process. Consumer advocacy groups aren't happy about it.

Florida's department of insurance has approved State Farm's request to eliminate some discount programs to homeowners that a company spokesman said would have minimal impact on the company's earnings.