In re the Arbitration between Torano & Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corp.

The question is whether an arbitration award on a death claim resulting from automobile collision may be vacated on the ground of partiality of the arbitrator because the amount awarded is only $500, about one sixth of decedent’s funeral expenses.

The arbitration was held pursuant to a Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation endorsement attached to a policy of automobile liability insurance. That endorsement, approved by the Superintendent of Insurance, provides for payments to those covered who are damaged by collision with uninsured and hit-and-run automobiles (see Insurance Law,…