Olson v. American Bankers Insurance Co. of Florida

Opinion

REARDON, J.

Introduction

This case arises from the failure of the American Bankers Insurance Company of Florida (American Bankers) to pay accident policy benefits after an insured, Phyllis Olson, drowned in a hot tub. Prior to her death, the insured had ingested a quantity of both alcohol and Valium. American Bankers refused payment based upon a policy exclusion for loss caused wholly or in part, directly or indirectly, by intoxicants. After a jury trial, a verdict was returned against the insurance company. American Bankers appealed.

In this appeal, the insurance company asserts several…