For many thousands of Americans, recreation, leisure and outdoor activities offer both an opportunity to get a break from working hard all week and a chance to exercise in healthful sports and recreation.
By Wallace L. Clapp, Jr., CPCU
For many thousands of Americans, recreation, leisure and outdoor activities offer both an opportunity to get a break from working hard all week and a chance to exercise in healthful sports and recreation.
Many hotels and resorts have popped up at ski centers and other outdoor recreation sites in state and national parks, on sea coasts and in mountainous areas.
Individuals, couples and families spend many hours and a tremendous amount of money on their favorite summer or winter activities, such as archery, firearm shooting, hunting and fishing, skiing and skating, mountain climbing, canoeing, white water rafting, trail riding, scuba diving, swimming and other water sports.
We have compiled a list of markets relating to some of the categories listed in The Insurance Marketplace and those managing general agents and insurers who write liability and property insurance.
Before listing the market facilities, we will briefly summarize the descriptions of coverage for the activities featured in this monthÕs list.
Archery and archery clubsÑCoverage is available for private archery clubs and for retailers who have indoor ranges and sell equipment for the archer. Often archers are also members of gun clubs and even hunting and fishing clubs where hunting is permitted with bows and arrows. Liability limits start at $100,000 and range to $1 million or higher.
Canoe trips and river raftingÑCoverage is available to resort hotels, dude ranches and as part of a package of coverages associated with outfitters and guides liability. From a liability point of view, canoe trips, and white water and non-white water rafting are very hazardous. They should not be undertaken without an experienced guide who has the ability to steer river rafts and guide canoeists through sometimes very rapid water streams and also overland on portages from one river to another. Serious injury can occur to passengers when rafts upset because of hazardous rapids, or due to inexperienced guides. Many underwriters do not want to cover white water risks over class 3.
The coverage can be added by endorsement to a package of liability coverage for resort hotels or outdoor guides and outfitters. Organizations that contract river rafting and canoe trips can buy separate coverage.
Dive shops/instructorsÑThis coverage is difficult to place. There are not many specialty markets available. Some of the more serious exposures are faulty scuba diving equipment which may malfunction and mean the difference between life or death for the diver. All divers must be instructed and certified before taking their first dive. Maintenance of air tanks is very important and the stock in dive shops is very expensive. General liability limits are available up to $1 million/$2 million. Products limits go up to $1 million. Contents coverage generally is $100,000 and will cover equipment for sale or rental. On-site pools are covered. Professional liability insurance for instructors is available to members of various scuba diving associations.
Exercise and physical fitness centersÑThere are many exercise and physical fitness centers in the U.S., ranging from small health and exercise clubs to elaborate operations with baths, exercise facilities and other sports and recreational programs. Exercise facilities often are an important amenity at resorts and health spas.
Newer facilities encompass complete sports clubs, with such sidelines as suntanning booths, racquetball and handball courts, and the traditional exercise rooms and saunas. The larger the facility, the wider the scope of liability exposure and the greater the concentration of property values. Programs for leading nationwide health centers have been arranged by specialty underwriters on package policies including property, liability (general, professional and products), locker room legal liability, crime and umbrella coverages.
Golf driving rangesÑPackage insurance coverage is written for stand-alone golf driving ranges. It is usually written on a standard BOP form and includes coverage on buildings, contents, and equipment as well as signs, off-premises property, netting, fencing, night lights, video equipment and related structures. Liability, business interruption and crime insurance are available. Liability limits are available to$1 million/$2 million.
HotelsÑHotels are standard risks that have become increasingly difficult to place because of great property exposures and an increased complexity of services offered by the hotel. Many hotels are located in the Caribbean and Florida where there is a heavy windstorm and flood exposure. Others are located in popular tourist meccas such as Reno, Las Vegas and Atlantic City, where legalized gambling is conducted, usually in the hotel. Restaurants and bars present exposure for liquor liability claims. Swimming pools, lakes, skating rinks and other leisure-time activities for guests present different hazardous exposures. Saddle animal liability and hotel-sponsored activities arranged for guests often carry a contingent liability on the part of the hotel. Liability and property coverages may be written for amounts in excess of $200 million by some markets.
Hunting and fishing clubsÑThese risks are often on private land and on lakes well stocked with game fish. Properties are developed and controlled for the exclusive use of members and their guests. Coverage is written to cover the liability of the club, often with limits of $1 million/$2 million. Underwriters check the following: total acreage; whether the area is fenced or not, and posted; proximity to traveled roads; whether it is a private club, or owned by an individual or individuals; estimated receipts of a game farm or stocked fishing lake; and estimated number of hunter and fisher days. Some underwriters have developed a new policy covering leased land for hunting purposes.
Miniature golfÑA number of underwriters specializing in sports and entertainment risks write insurance for mini golf operations. Besides property and liability coverage, options include medical and AD&D coverage for participants. Liability limits are available to$1 million.
Mountain climbing/mountain-eeringÑSpecial coverage is written for persons who engage in mountain climbing and guides who accompany persons who plan to scale large mountain peaks and cliffs. Coverage is available for gear and equipment used to make the climb and general liability coverage for the guides. Participant accident insurance may be arranged through special high-risk accident policies.
Outdoor recreational facilitiesÑOutdoor camping and recreation is a very popular pastime for individuals and families in the U.S. National and state parks, private camping grounds and hunting and fishing preserves are filled with outdoor enthusiasts both on weekends and during the week.
Insurance packages are available covering such liability exposures as saddle animals, horseback trail rides, archery clubs and shooting ranges, hunting and fishing clubs, recreational trails, resort hotels, dude ranches, winter recreational activities, and canoe, kayak, river rafting and whitewater river rafting. Auto liability coverage is available for buses and vans transporting guests to recreational activities. Some programs furnish property insurance for buildings and equipment owned by hunting and fishing lodges, hotels and resorts. General liability insurance is available for clubs and members who lease land from others for hunting and fishing, and for landowners who rent out their land. Liability limits extend to $1million/$2 million. Excess liability is available.
Outfitters and guides liabilityÑCoverage is usually associated with guest-ranch activities in the western states, but coverage can be purchased by individual guides. Coverage may be provided under a liability endorsement to the hotel, ranch or resort policy for activities sponsored and supervised by the insured or outfitters and guides. Coverage is available for activities while using saddle and pack animals on trail rides or riding in snowmobiles, or while guests are being conducted on white water or non-white water float trips.
ParasailingÑBodily injury or property damage liability for parasailing operators is available. Limits are written to $500,000 or higher. Coverage is written on an occurrence CGL form. Premium is based on receipts. The risk is avoided by most underwriters.
Recreational clubs liabilityÑSpecial third-party liability coverage for sports and recreational clubs is provided by certain underwriters specializing in difficult-to-place liability risks. There are many different types of recreational clubs, but generally all such risks involve some element of danger to the club member or public if safety precautions are not taken. Common prospects for this coverage include archery clubs, gun or trap and skeet clubs, hunting and fishing clubs, swim clubs and skydiving clubs.
Recreational trail operators liabilityÑBecause snowmobiles and other off-the-road vehicles are prohibited from traveling on public roads, many hundreds of miles in county and state forest lands, national parks and forests and conservation areas have been set aside for special trails. The overcrowding in state and county parks has led to the opening of trails on private land. Private landowners who charge a fee to the public assume considerably more legal responsibility than when the premises are available free of charge. The public has the right to expect that the trail is safe. Special liability insurance is developed to protect owners and operators of trails against third-party claims. Insurance limits extend to$1 million or higher.
ResortsÑBoth liability and property insurance are available for the owner and operator of a resort hotel. Fire, extended coverage, vandalism, crime, boiler and machinery coverages are difficult to place, often because of the propertyÕs distance from fire department services, inadequate water supply, high brush hazards, or the presence of older buildings. High concentration of values and a large variety of liability exposures add to the difficulty in placing larger risks.
Liability hazards include swimming pools, watersports (wind surfers, jet skis, pontoon boats), scuba diving, water skiing, trail rides, mountain climbing, white water rafting, as well as winter activities on ski trails, tows and lifts, toboggan runs, and skating rinks. Liquor liability and restaurant and bar exposures exist in most resort hotels.
Riding academies/hunt clubsÑRiding academies or schools are especially difficult to place because the participants generally are beginners learning to ride saddle horses, or are trying to acquire new skills such as jumping. Riding academies usually stable horses for owners, who may ride their own horses or permit the academyÕs owner to use their horses for riding lessons or excursions. The owner of the academy has a care, custody and control exposure in this case. Special events such as rodeos, horse shows and jumping competitions may be conducted by the insured, which adds a spectator liability hazard. Hunt clubs usually run rallies for their members and have horse shows and other activities.
Shooting range liabilityÑLiability insurance is available on trap, clay targets and other similar target ranges open to the public or available for use only by club members and their guests. Coverage is written for bodily injury and property damage liability usually on a gross receipts basis. Underwriters require detailed information as to the layout of the range and distance from roads or other public areas. This coverage may be combined with risks that offer insurance on archery clubs and hunting and fishing clubs. Liability limits usually extend to a maximum of $1 million/$2 million with excess coverage available.
Skateboard parksÑLiability insurance constitutes a substantially large portion of the operating expense of most skateboard parks. The primary concern of underwriters is the frequency of minor injuries such as broken wrists, ankles, dislocated hips and knee injuries. Underwriters insist on medical payments insurance for the operator or medical insurance for each participant to cover such injuries. If the operator is a member of an association, it is more attractive to the underwriter. This risk is avoided by most underwriters.
Skating centersÑSkating risks are considered to be difficult-to-place liability risks. As in the case of other public amusement places, such as amusement parks, ball parks, ski areas and swimming pools, there is often a severe liability exposure due to injuries suffered by participants as well as spectators. Many modern roller rinks have sprung up through the country, replacing many of the older, mostly frame structures. Ice skating centers, both indoor and outdoor, have been established in shopping centers, in suburban parks and in municipal parks. Some winter resorts and hotels have built ice skating rinks for the benefit of guests. Most ice rinks are artificially cooled, enabling them to be open all year around.
Ski area liabilityÑA 1977 court decision rendered in a Vermont superior court made operators of public ski areas throughout the country much more aware of their responsibilities toward skiers and the stability and cost of ski area liability coverage. Since that time new legislation in a number of northern states has mandated certain responsibilities to ski area operators and certain other responsibilities to skiers so that the law in these states is less subject to judicial interpretation. New laws place most of the responsibility for descent of the mountain trails on the skier and responsibility for safe transit on lifts with the operator. Operators would also be responsible for the maintenance of slopes and trails, as well as premises liability in lodges, shops and restaurants under their ownership or operation. Liability coverage for primary insurance usually has maximum limits of$1 million/$2 million, with excess coverage available.
Summer recreational activitiesÑA great number of varied outdoor activities can be insured in the summertime. Amusement rides, games, outdoor carnivals and circuses, church and charity bazaars and fairs, day camps, summer camps, excursions, golf outings, swim clubs, swimming pools, beaches and lake fronts, family fun centers at parks and on boardwalks are a few seasonal activities for which liability insurance is needed by sponsors of these affairs. Short-term liability insurance for special events is an excellent door opener for much more profitable business from the sponsor.
Tennis and racquetball centersÑIndoor tennis centers have recently begun to spring up throughout the country, making tennis a year-round pastime. Such indoor courts can represent rather high values. Buildings are generally of substantial construction, and there is also liability and business interruption exposure. Other activities such as racquetball, handball and often exercise and physical fitness equipment may be available in one indoor complex. Some companies have developed package programs offering property and liability coverage for free-standing centers, or those combined with shopping center, hotel and resort risks.
Trail ridesÑCoverage is written for this liability exposure usually undertaken by outfitters and guides, summer camps or other resort hotel properties and guest ranches. Exposure is similar to animal rides but covers higher limits of liability because most riders are adults. Liability limits extend to $1million/ $2 million and higher.
Water parksÑThese are popular amusement facilities existing at summer resorts and near many cities in the U.S. The parks contain many slides and other pools where people can swim. Liability limits may be purchased up to $1 million and all-risk property insurance is available.
Winter recreational activitiesÑWintertime brings an entirely new set of outdoor activities that require insurance coverage. Potential insureds include: sponsors of events, resorts and ski lodge owners and operators, concessionaires, civic groups and fraternal organizations. Liability coverage is necessary for activities at winter resorts, such as snowmobiling by guests, toboggan slides, ski lifts and tows, ski schools, skating instructions, snowmobile trails and special events.
Municipalities, civic and fraternal organizations sponsor such activities as snowmobile races and derbies, winter carnivals and ice festivals, ice skating races and ice sailing regattas, and other types of short-term events that require general liability coverage. Limits for liability extend to $1 million or higher, depending on the needs of the sponsoring organization.
Most of the market facilities available for the recreational and entertainment risks write a variety of the coverages described above. In our analysis of this market, we will either point out which risks are excluded or those that are included if there are only a few coverages written.
The following activities are covered under this marketplace analysis: archery and archery clubs, canoe trips and river rafting, dive shops/dive instructors, exercise and physical fitness clubs, golf driving ranges, hotels, hunting and fishing clubs, miniature golf, mountain climbing, outfitters and guides, outdoor recreational facilities, parasailing, recreational clubs, resort hotels, riding academies and hunt clubs, shooting ranges, skateboard parks, skating centers, ski areas, summer recreational activities, tennis and racquetball centers, trail rides, water parks, and winter recreational activities.
The AIG Life Cos. (U.S.), 80 Pine St., 13th Floor, New York, NY 10005; (800) 416-3797; fax: (212) 635-9006 (Denise Masella: e-mail: ah.lifeus@aig.com). This insurer writes accident coverage for all of the risks except hotels and resort hotels. The limits of liability vary, so the insurer requests that agents in all states contact the company to get further information.
All Risks, Ltd., 1020 Cromwell Bridge Rd., Towson, MD 21286; (410) 828-5810; (800) 366-5810; fax: (410) 828-8179; e-mail: ncroce@allrisks.com (Nick Croce).
This excess and surplus lines wholesaler writes all risks except golf driving ranges. Primary liability limits are available to $5 million. Umbrella/excess is written up to $100 million. The firmÕs facilities are accessible on a worldwide basis. Underwriters include: Admiral, CIGNA, Essex, General Star, Royal E&S, United Capitol, Reliance National, Gulf, Scottsdale, RLI/Mt. Hawley, Chubb, Landmark, Lexington, Northland and United National.
Black/White Associates, 901 E. Tahquitz, C-201, Palm Springs, CA 92262; (760) 320-6040; fax: (800) 394-6102; URL: www.bwins.com (Gloria Nelson: e-mail: glorian@bwins.com).
This managing general agency writes a program for canoe trips and river rafting, hunting and fishing clubs, mountain climbing, outfitters and guides, outdoor recreational facilities, summer and winter recreational activities. Limits of liability are available to $1 million or $2 million per occurrence. Products liability is included. Coverage is written in all states. Insurer is A ++ rated.
Bohrer-Croxdale & McAdoo, Inc., 601 South Ave., P.O. Box 2760, Springfield, MO 65801-2760; (417) 869-2550; (800) 779-2550; fax: (417) 869-5102 or (888) 869-2550 (Yvonne Bohrer, Rachel Day or Cecilia Early). The agency also has a branch office in Conway, AR.
This managing general agency writes the following risks: archery and archery clubs, canoe trips/river rafting, exercise and physical fitness clubs, golf driving ranges, hotels, hunting and fishing clubs, miniature golf, outfitters and guides, outdoor recreational facilities, resort hotels, shooting ranges and skating centers. Up to $1 million is available. The agency can furnish products liability, physical damage and excess liability coverage.
Agents and brokers in AR, KS and MO are serviced. Insurers include Capitol Indemnity, Northland, Scottsdale and National Indemnity.
Bollinger Fowler Co., 830 Morris Tpk., Short Hills, NJ 07078; (973) 467-0444; (800) 526-1379; fax: (973) 467-0795; URL: www.bollingerfowler.com (Lori Windolf Crispo, CPCU).
This firm writes property and casualty and life and accident insurance for recreational clubs, summer recreational activities, tennis clubs and team sports for winter recreational programs. The recreational activities program is geared toward parks and recreation departments, amateur team sports and leagues and independent sports organizations. For tennis clubs, the Crum & Forster program is for member-owned or privately owned clubs.
Limits of liability are $1 million/$2 million. Products liability is written for $2 million aggregate. Excess and umbrella liability is available. Coverage is accessible by agents nationwide. Insurers include: CIGNA, Providence Life & Health, Chubb, AIG, and Crum & Forster.
Burns & Wilcox, Ltd., 220 Kaufman Financial Ctr., 30833 Northwestern Hwy., Farmington Hills, MI 48334; (248) 932-9000; (800) 521-1918; fax: (248) 932-9046 (Steve Allen).
This managing general agent offers coverage for all of the risks associated with recreational and entertainment activities. Liability limits of liability extend to $1 million/$2 million primary and up to $10 million excess. Products liability goes to $1 million. All-risk and named peril physical damage insurance is available. The firm services agents and brokers in all states except AK, HI, ME and NY. Coverage is underwritten by various carriers.
Carnegie Insurance Service Corp., 17700 Broadway Ave., Cleveland, OH 44146; (440) 439-5555; fax: (440) 439-5551; e-mail: ciscocibco@juno.com (Scott Russell).
This managing general agency writes all of the risks except canoe trips/river rafting, mountain climbing, outfitters and guides, parasailing, riding academies and hunt clubs, ski areas, tennis and racquetball centers, trail rides, and winter recreational activities.
Primary liability limits cap at$1 million/$2 million. Products is included at same limits. Physical damage and excess liability is unlimited. The firm services agents and brokers in FL, IL, IN and OH. The coverage is underwritten by various A rated underwriters.
Carpenter Insurance Service, Inc., 134 Holiday Ct., Ste. 300, Annapolis, MD 21401-7059; (410) 266-6750; (800) 472-7771; fax: (410) 266-9154 (H. Frederick Mann).
This program administrator writes archery and archery clubs, hunting and fishing clubs, outfitters and guides, and shooting ranges. Liability/products and physical damage coverage is available. The company serves agents in most states except HI. Northland Insurance Cos. is the insurer.
Central INSUREX Agency, 800 S. Washington St., Van Wert, OH 45891; (419) 238-4101; (800) 736-7131; fax: (800) 736-7026 (Kurt Muntzinger, CPCU).
This agency writes archery and archery clubs, exercise/physical fitness clubs, golf driving ranges, hotels, hunting and fishing clubs, miniature golf, outfitters and guides, skating centers and tennis and racquetball centers. Liability limits are available to $1 million. Products is included at same limits. Excess/umbrellas are available to$10 million. The firm serves agents in IL, IN and OH. The coverages are underwritten by various nonadmitted carriers.
CIGNA Special ProgramsÑSports and Leisure, 8755 W. Higgins Rd., Chicago, IL 60631; (800) 424-4430; fax: (773) 380-6431; URL: http://www.cigna.com/pcinsurance/.sportleisure (Mike Muehling).
This insurance company writes outdoor recreational facilities, skating centers, ski areas, summer and winter recreational activities. Outdoor recreational facilities include amusements, carnivals and fairs and fairgrounds and open air multi-purpose arenas and facilities. Summer and winter recreational activities include insurance on pro and semi-pro sport teams, amateur sports and special events and single sports events. Agents in all states may access these facilities either directly or through exclusive managing general agents. Limits vary by program.
Francis L. Dean & Associates, Inc., 1776 S. Naperville Rd., Ste. 101 B., P.O. Box 4200, Wheaton, IL 60189; (800) 745-2409; fax: (630) 665-7294 (John Dean).
This firm writes coverage for archery and archery clubs, exercise and physical fitness centers, recreational clubs, summer recreational activities, tennis and racquetball centers and winter recreational activities. Exercise/physical fitness clubs are limited to gymnastics, martial arts and aerobics exposures.
Primary liability coverage limits extend to $1 million/$2 million. Products liability is included. Excess and umbrellas are available to $5million. Coverage is written in all states. The insurer for the program is Reliance National.
Delaware Valley Underwriting Agency, Inc., 420 S. York Rd., Hatboro, PA 19040; (215) 443-3500; (800) 388-0215; fax: (215) 672-7983;e-mail: info@dvua.com; URL: http://www.dvua.com (Tony Saltzman).
This managing general agent writes all of the listed coverages except shooting ranges. Various underwriters and coverages have various primary limits of liability. Products liability and physical damage coverages may be written. Excess liability may range to $50million. Coverage is accessible to agents in DE, MD, NJ and PA. The programs are available through various underwriters.
The Equestrian Group, P.O. Box 9957, Phoenix, AZ 85068; (602) 992-1570; (800) 874-9191; fax: (602) 992-8327; e-mail: eqgroup@eqgroup.com; URL: www.eqgroup.com (Brent Allen).
The company writes dive shops/instructors, hunting and fishing clubs, outfitters and guides, recreational clubs riding academies and hunt clubs and trail rides. Up to $1 million liability limits are available. Products is covered for the same limits. Excess/umbrella coverage is available up to $10million. The programs are available to agents in the U.S. and territories. Insurers are Golden Eagle and Calvert.
Florida International Underwriters, Inc., 2300 Glades Rd., Ste. 135 E., Boca Raton, FL 33431; (561) 392-1323; (800) 275-4348; fax: (5610 392-9719 (Barbara Berenbaum, James Gallaudet and Colin Fellows}.
The agency writes exercise/physical fitness centers, golf driving ranges, hotels, hunting and fishing clubs, miniature golf, outfitters and guides for up to $1 million limits in FL only (Barbara Berenbaum). The firm also writes parasailing and watercraft rentals for $1 million liability limits and $500,000 physical damage in the U.S. and Caribbean area (James Gallaudet). Resort hotels are also written in the U. S. and Caribbean for unlimited coverage (Colin Fellows).
Frontier Insurance Group, 195 Lake Louise Marie Rd., Rock Hill, NY 12775-8000; (914) 796-2100; (800) 836-2100; fax: (914) 796-2022 (Jane Gordon: e-mail: jgordon@frontierins.com or Art Hussey: e-mail: ahussey@frontierins.com).
This insurance company writes archery and archery clubs, canoe trips and river rafting, hunting and fishing clubs, outfitters and guides, outdoor recreational facilities, riding academies/hunt clubs and shooting ranges. Limits of liability vary according to the coverage. Frontier writes in all states.
Gateway Underwriters Agency, 755 S. New Ballas Rd., Ste. 130, St. Louis, MO 63141; (314) 567-4200; (800) 325-7652; fax: (3140 567-4552 (Carl Bartlotti).
This managing general agent writes recreational and entertainment activities except: dive shops/instructors, mountain climbing, parasailing, skateboard parks and water parks. Liability limits are available to $1 million/$2 million. Products is included. Excess coverage is available to $25 million. The firm will consider all types of risks from small (minimum premium of $500) to large (minimum premium $100,000) risks.
The agency serves agents in AR, IL, IA, KS, MO and NE. Underwriters include: Western World, Nautilus, First Financial, Scottsdale, Lexington, National Fire & Marine and Guaranty National.
Gillingham & Associates, Inc., 1495 Pine Grove Rd., Ste. A-101, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487; (970) 879-9633; (888) 636-6504; fax: (970) 879-2891 (Glenn Sudol).
This managing general agent offers a program called the ÒOutdoorsman Program.Ó Activities included are: archery and archery clubs, canoe trips, hunting and fishing preserves and lodges, outfitters and guides, outdoor recreational facilities, resort hotels and guest ranches, riding academies/hunt clubs, shooting ranges, summer recreational activities and trail rides. The firm also writes a Hunting Lease program, providing general liability insurance for members and clubs that lease land from others for the purposes of hunting and fishing.
Liability limits extend to $1 million per occurrence unlimited general aggregate. The coverage includes medical payments and products. Physical damage coverages are available on resorts, lodges and guest ranches. Excess coverage is available up to $50 million.
The program is available to agents in all states. The underwriter is Gulf Insurance Co., a member of the Travelers Insurance Group.
Insurance Innovators, Inc., 130 S. Easton Rd., P.O. Box 969, Glenside, PA 19038; (215) 885-7300; fax: (215) 886-2482 (Tom Murphy).
This managing general agent writes all risks except dive shops/instructors, mountain climbing, parasailing, riding academies/hunt clubs, ski areas, water parks and winter recreational activities. Limits of liability are available to $1 million. The firm serves agents in CT, DE, MA, NJ, NY and PA.
International Excess Agency, Inc., 5001 Mayfield Rd., Ste. 109, Cleveland, OH 44124; (216) 291-1818; (800) 937-3497; fax: (216) 291-1382;e-mail: intlxs@aol.com; URL: www.intlxs.com (Marc Pender, CPCU).
This excess and surplus lines broker writes all of the activities except parasailing and skateboard parks. The limits of liability are $1million/$2 million. Products is written for $1 million. Excess is available to $10 million. Underwriters include: LloydÕs of London, Acceptance Indemnity, Scottsdale, U.S. Liability, Reliance, North American Capacity.
Jacobs-Burke & Associates, 8221 Brecksville Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141; (440) 838-1870; fax: (440) 838-0742 (Jim Jacobs or Jeff Burke).
This firm writes all activities except: canoe trips/river rafting, mountain climbing, parasailing, skateboard parks, trail rides and water parks. Limits of liability are available up to $1 million/$2 million. Products liability is written to $1 million. Physical damage coverage is available to $500,000. Excess and umbrella is available to $25 million. The agency serves agents only in OH. Scottsdale and Western Heritage are carriers.
Jimcor Associates, 15 Ver Valen St., Closter, NJ 07624; (201) 784-8900; fax: (201) 784-7901.
This managing general agent writes all risks except mountain climbing, parasailing and ski areas. Liability limits up to $1 million/.$2 million are available. Products is written with the same limits. Physical damage coverage is available up to$1 million. The agency serves agents in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states. Underwriters include Scottsdale, Essex, Reliance, Royal, Monticello, American Equity, Nautilus, Western World and U.S. Liability.
K & K Insurance, P.O. Box 2338, Ft. Wayne, IN 46804; (800) 637-4757; fax (219) 459-5866; URL: www.kandkinsurance.com (Angie Poulos). This managing underwriter writes all recreational and entertainment activities except dive shops/instructors. Limits of liability are available to $1 million. Products and physical damage coverages are also written for $1 million. Excess and umbrella insurance can be arranged up to $50 million for most programs. Facilities are accessible in all states and Canada. Insurer used is TIG Insurance Co.
H. R. Keller & Co., Inc., 1520 Sheridan Dr., Buffalo, NY 14217; (716) 874-1644; (800) 424-2202; fax: (716) 874-4920; e-mail: keller@fcs-net.com (Rob Martin or John Barton).
This managing general agency writes all of the recreational risks except dive shops/instructors, mountain climbing, parasailing, riding academies/hunt clubs, skateboard parks, ski areas, trail rides and water parks.
Limits of liability extend to $1 million. Products is written for the same limits. Physical damage and excess insurance is available. The firm services agents in NY only. Underwriters used are: Frontier, Nautilus and First Financial.
Klein Insurance Services, 855 Valley Rd., Clifton, NJ 07013;(973) 773-5101; fax: (973) 773-8176; URL: http://www.kis-hospitality.com (J. Scott Klein or Pat Rizzo).
This agency writes only hotels and motels. Liability limits are available to $1 million/$2 million. Primary excess coverage can be arranged to $10 million. The firm can make available $15 million excess of$10 million. Underwriting sources available are: Gulf, Fulcrum, Evanston, AIG, CIGNA, General Accident, Hartford Steam Boiler and Fidelity and Deposit. Agents can access this market in all states.
FILMS Insurance Services Ltd., P.O. Box 553, Shawnee on Delaware, PA 18356; (800) 763-2249; fax: (717) 223-7113 (John A. Martone).
The firm writes canoe trips/river rafting, hotels, miniature golf, mountain climbing, outfitters and guides, outdoor recreational facilities, resort hotels, ski areas, summer recreational activities and tennis and racquetball centers.
Limits of liability extend to .$1 million/$2 million. Products is written for $1 million. Physical damage coverage is offered on a special form. Excess/umbrella coverage is available up to $10 million. Coverage is accessible to agents in the Northeast including MD and VA. Underwriting companies used are: Lexington, Security Indemnity, Paradigm, and Utica First.
Gary Markel Surplus Lines Brokerage Inc., P.O. Box 20007, St. Petersburg, FL 33742; (813) 577-5980; (800) 237-2470; fax: (813) 577-5804 (Paula Wachholz).
This specialty broker writes dive shops/instructors, exercise/physical fitness clubs, golf driving ranges, hotels, miniature golf, resort hotels, riding academies/hunt clubs and tennis and racquetball centers.
Limits of liability range up to $1 million/$2 million for occurrence form including miscellaneous professional liability. Products is written to $1 million. Physical damage on autos is written for comprehensive and collision (ACV or agreed amount). Excess limits are available to $100 million. Coverage is available in all states. Underwriters include Essex, Scottsdale and Markel Insurance Co.
Miami Valley E & S Agency, Inc., P.O. Box 29, Miamisburg, OH 45342; (937) 438-0491; (800) 445-9863; fax: (888) 438-9834; e-mail: mves@worldnet.att.net; URL: mves.com (Fred Wootan).
This managing general agency writes all risks except: canoe trips/river rafting, dive shops/instructors, mountain climbing, parasailing, skateboard parks and trail rides. Limits of liability are available up to $1 million/$2 million. Products is written for the same limits. Unlimited physical damage coverage is available. Excess coverage can be arranged to $10 million. Coverage excludes assault/battery and communicable diseases.
The agency services agents in IN, KY, OH, TN, VA, and WVA. Underwriters include: Clarendon, Century Surety, First Financial and Colony.
Nationwide InsuranceÑSpecial Risks Health, P.O. Box 2399, Columbus, OH 43216-2399; (800) 525-8669, ext. 1-3735; fax: (614) 854-3753; e-mail: SpecialRsks@Nationwide.com (Ron Barrow).
The insurer writes accident insurance for all risks except hunting and fishing clubs and summer recreational activities. Accident insurance limits are available up to $25,000 Accident Death and Specific Loss; up to $25,000 Accident Medical; and up to $250 a week Accident Weekly Income (this is for adult groups only). The coverage is available in all 50 states, DC, PR and VI.
National Specialty Underwriters, Inc., 155 108th Ave., N.E., Ste. 501, Bellevue, WA 98004; (425) 450-1090; fax: (425) 450-1026; URL: www.NSUI.com (Dusty Rowland, e-mail: drowland@nsui.com).
This program administrator manages property and liability programs for the hospitality industry. Three programs are offered: (1) a luxury hotel, casino and resort program; (2) a Howard Johnson, Ramada and Days Inn program; and (3) a middle market lodging program.
The luxury hotel program is available to hotels, casinos and resorts that charge in excess of $100 per night for their single rooms. This program assumes a minimum self-insured retention of $5,000 and works well for risks accustomed to buying in excess of $25 million of liability coverage. Liability limits are available up to $200 million with the minimum being $50 million. Liability premiums are based on the number of guest rooms. A manuscript property form is offered and is tailored to the many amenities offered by luxury hotels.
The Howard Johnson, Ramada, Days Inn program is for risks that have these franchise affiliations. Credits are available for good quality assurance scores. A manuscript property policy is offered.
The middle market lodging program is offered to independently owned and franchised hotels that charge between $40 and $100 per night. Liability coverage is available on a first-dollar or self-insured retention basis. The program offers a $10 million umbrella with higher limits available.
All coverages are offered except workers compensation. Physical damage is offered for property and for owned autos and garagekeepers legal liability. The programs are available to agents throughout the entire U.S., including PR, U.S. VI and some other Caribbean Islands. Some of the underwriters used are the St. Paul, TIG, F&D and Travelers. The firm makes extensive use of liability purchasing groups.
North Island Facilities Ltd., 30 Park Ave., Manhasset, NY 11030-2444; (516) 365-7440; fax: (516) 365-7392; e-mail: nifmail@aol.com (Dan Mogilnicki).
This managing general agent writes exercise and physical fitness clubs, hotels, outfitters and guides, outdoor recreational facilities, resort hotels, skating centers and water parks. Liability limits are available to $1 million. Products is written for the same limits. Physical damage coverage is available to $10 million. Excess/umbrella limits to $25 million can be arranged. The coverage is accessible to agents in 48 states. Among underwriters used are Genstar and Scottsdale.
Northland Insurance Cos., 1295 Northland Dr., St. Paul, MN 55120; (612) 688-4100; fax: (612) 688-4280;e-mail: info@northlandins.com; URL: www.northlandins.com (Sandra Saltsman).
This insurer writes all risks except dive shops/instructors, mountain climbing, parasailing, riding academies/hunt clubs, skateboard parks, skating centers, ski areas, trail rides and water parks. The company also insures batting cages, bumper boats, go-carts and family entertainment centers.
Liability limits are available up to $1 million/$2 million. Products coverage is available. Facilities are available to agents in all states except NH and NJ. The company uses Northfield Insurance Co. in most states.
The Outdoorsman Agency, 2711 Middleburg Dr., Ste. 214, P.O. Box 6988, Columbia, SC 29260; (800) 849-9288; fax: (803) 799-6609; e-mail: outdoorins@aol.com (Steve Murray or Andrew Woodham, Jr.).
This program administrator was formed to write liability insurance for professionals who work in the outdoors, as well as landowners, members of hunting preserves and clubs.
Risks undertaken include: guest lodging; club houses; food and beverage services; pro shops; kennels; archery ranges and fishing activities; trap, skeet and clay target shooting ranges; outfitters and guides and lodge owners; canoe trips; rod and gun clubs; indoor and outdoor rifle and pistol ranges. Hunting lease liability, retail firearms dealers, forestry consultants, outdoor equipment manufacturers and landowners liability risks also are written.
Limits of liability vary as to program, but most programs offer up to $1 million/$2 million coverage on premises, operations and products. Umbrella/excess coverage is available. The programs are accessible to agents in all states. Frontier Insurance Group is the underwriter.
Phoenix Excess and Surplus Lines, P.O. Box 7386, W. Trenton, NJ 08628; (609) 530-0111; fax: (609) 538-0661; e-mail: phinix@ix.netcom.com (Dennis Pellegrino).
This excess and surplus lines broker writes all risks except: dive shops/instructors, mountain climbing, parasailing, skateboard parks and trail rides. Liability limits are available to $1 million/$2 million. Umbrella and excess is available. The firm serves agents in NJ, NY and PA. Insurers used include Scottsdale and Investors.
Prime Insurance Syndicate, Inc., P.O. Box 711520, Salt Lake City, UT 84171; (801) 944-3250; (800) 257-5590; fax: (801) 944-3254. Branch office: 311 S. Wacker Dr., Ste. 410, Chicago, IL 60606; (312) 983-7190; (800) 456-4576; fax: (312) 408-8081 (Rick J. Lindsey).
This company is a syndicate on the INEX (formerly the Illinois Insurance Exchange). It writes all of the risks described in the article. Primary liability limits available are $1 million/$1 million. Excess coverage is unlimited. Products coverage is optional. Physical damage coverage may be arranged.
The facility is accessible to agents in all states except: CA, CO, CT, FL, ME, NV, NH, NY, RI, TX and WA.
Quaker Special Risk, P.O. Box 415, Sea Girt, NJ 08750; (800) 447-4180; (732) 223-9072; e-mail: mwalsh@qsr-insurance.com; URL: www.qsr-insurance.com (Mike Walsh). This managing general agency writes exercise/physical fitness clubs, golf driving ranges, hotels, hunting and fishing clubs, miniature golf, outdoor recreational facilities, recreational clubs, resort hotels, riding academies/hunt clubs, shooting ranges, skating centers, summer recreational activities, tennis and racquetball centers and trail rides. Limits of liability are $1 million. Products liability is included for same limits. Physical damage coverage is available. Umbrella/excess limits go to $10 million. The facilities are available in states on the Eastern seaboard, AZ, CO and NM. Various underwriters are used depending on the state.
RISC, Inc., 750 N. St. Paul, Ste. 800, Dallas, TX 75201; (214) 954-0707; fax: (214) 954-0999 (David Howard).
This managing general agent, excess and surplus lines broker writes: exercise and physical fitness clubs, golf driving ranges, hotels, miniature golf, outdoor recreational facilities, recreational clubs, resort hotels, ski areas, tennis and racquetball centers and water parks. Liability limits are available to $2 million/$2 million. Products coverage is available for the same limits. Physical damage may be written up to $1 million. Excess/umbrella can be arranged to $5 million. Coverage is available in all states. Underwriters include Essex, Monticello, Republic, Empire and American Empire.
Roush Insurance Services, P.O. Box 1060, Noblesville, IN 46061; (317) 776-6880; (800) 752-8402; fax: (317) 776-6891 (Gail Pierce and Jerry Roush).
The excess and surplus lines broker writes all risks except: dive shops/instructors, mountain climbing, parasailing, skateboard parks, ski areas, trail rides and water parks. Liability limits are available up to $1 million/$2 million. Products is written with $1 million limits. Basic, broad form and special property coverages are written. Excess/umbrella coverage may be arranged to $20 million. The agency serves agents in IL and IN. Underwriters used include: Acceptance Indemnity, American Equity, AXA Global Risks, Century Surety, Gainsco, Nautilus and Scottsdale.
W. A. Schickedanz Agency Inc., 300 W. Main, P.O. Box 445, Belleville, IL 62222; (618) 233-0644; (800) 869-9976; fax: (618) 233-0672 (Joe Nail).
This managing general agency writes all risks except: dive shops/instructors, mountain climbing, parasailing, riding academies/hunt clubs, skateboard parks, ski areas, trail rides and water parks. Limits of liability extend to $1 million/$2 million. Products is written for $1 million/$1 million. Umbrella and excess is available to $10 million. The firm services agents in IL and MO. Underwriters used include: First Financial, Burlington, Northfield, Landmark American.
Surplus Insurance Brokers Agency, Inc., P.O. Box 749, South Bend, IN 46624; (800) 342-5706; fax: (800) 578-7758 (Carol Dhoore).
This excess and surplus lines broker writes: archery and archery clubs, exercise and physical fitness centers, golf driving ranges, hotels, hunting and fishing clubs, miniature golf, recreational clubs, shooting ranges, skating centers, summer recreational activities, tennis and racquetball centers and winter recreational activities.
Liability limits are available to $1 million. Products is written at the same limits. The firm serves agents in IN only. Underwriters include: Scottsdale, Northfield, Capitol Indemnity and Landmark American.
Swett & Crawford, 8 Piedmont Center, Ste. 210, 3525 Piedmont Rd., Atlanta, GA 30075; (800) 325-3405; fax: (404) 262-7829 (Michael N. Ladd).
This wholesale specialty broker and managing underwriter writes golf driving ranges, miniature golf skating centers, water parks, fun centers and bungee and related risks. Primary liability is written to limits of $5 million. Products coverage is available. Property coverage may be arranged. Umbrella and excess coverage is available. Facilities are available to agents in all states of Continental U.S.A. St. Paul is the underwriter for primary liability.
J. C. Wilson Corp., 8036 Moorsbridge Rd., Portage, MI 49024; (616) 327-4130; (800) 888-5692; fax: (616) 327-4131; e-mail: karen-stites@jmwilson.com (Karen Stites).
This managing general agent writes all risks except: dive shops/instructors, mountain climbing, outdoor recreational facilities, parasailing, skateboard parks, ski areas, trail rides, and water parks. Liability limits are available to $20 million. Products is written up to same limits. Physical damage coverages are available. Umbrella and excess is available up to $20 million. The firm services agents in IL, IN, MI, OH and WI. Underwriters include: Capitol Indemnity, First Financial, General Star, Nautilus, National Indemnity, Jefferson and Penn America.
Worldwide Facilities, Inc., 3530 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 1500, Los Angeles, CA 90010; (213) 380-4670; fax: (213) 384-5180 (Davis Moore).
This specialty broker writes all risks except: archery and archery clubs, canoe trips/river rafting, dive shops/instructors, mountain climbing, parasailing, riding academies/hunt clubs, and shooting ranges. Primary liability is written to $1 million. Products is available at same limits. Physical damage coverages are available. Excess/umbrella may be arranged to $100 million. Facilities are accessible in all states.
Limits of liability are available up to $1 million/$2 million. Products is written for $1 million/$1 million. Umbrella and excess is available up to $10 million. The agency serves agents in IL and MO. Underwriters include: First Financial, Burlington, Northfield, Landmark American.
Worldwide Weather, 1615 Northern Blvd., Ste. 301, Manhasset, NY 11030; (516) 365-7373; (800) 500-5801; fax (516) 365-7474; URL: www.weatherins.com; www.weatherinsurance.com (Frank Parkhurst). This managing underwriter writes all of the risks for entertainment and recreational activities for both weather and liability coverages. Limits of liability are available up to $50 million. Products liability and physical damage insurance are available. Umbrella excess coverage may be arranged. The facilities are accessible in all 50 states. A-rated or higher, admitted and nonadmitted carriers are used. *
©COPYRIGHT: The Rough Notes Magazine, 1998