Matthias v. United Pacific Ins. Co.

—The amended complaint alleges that the front stairway to rented premises was defective by reason of variations in height of risers and absence of a central handrail. It asserts that this condition had for a long time been known to the owner; that defendant insurer, with “actual knowledge” of this condition, “negligently aided, abetted, encouraged and induced” the owner to maintain the condition “by selling [owner] a policy of liability insurance,” and by “failing to advise, direct or require” the owner to make the stairway safe. Demurrer of defendant insurer to the amended complaint was…