News & Updates

Matthews & Jones encourages business clients to carefully review their existing insurance programs to determine whether coverage is afforded for coronavirus and related losses.  The determination of whether coverage is available depends on the specific types of coverage and the terms of each insurance policy.

Typically purchased as part of a company’s commercial property insurance policy, business interruption insurance is intended to place a business owner whose business is forced to close in the same place he or she would have been absent the interruption to the business. When an insured business suffers an interruption to its operation, it may be entitled to insurance benefits equaling the amount of lost earnings the business suffered during the time it reasonably took to bring the business back online.

The Walton County Board of County Commissioners recently added language in the County’s emergency declaration which is designed to assist businesses with filing claims related to business interruption.  The added language notes that “the novel coronavirus physically is causing property damage due to its proclivity to (become) attached to surfaces for prolonged periods of time.”  Walton County’s new language is based on similar actions taken in Panama City and New Orleans.

Should you have any questions or need assistance in review of insurance coverage, please contact ">Kenneth M. Borick in our firm.

This information is being provided as general information only and is not intended to be and does not constitute legal advice.  The information contained herein should not be relied upon for legal advice.