Parker v. American Family Insurance

The issue before the court is whether an insurance- policy’s underinsured motorist arbitration provision is contrary to public policy if it permits a trial de novo for awards in excess of the minimum liability set forth in the Illinois Safety and Family Financial Responsibility Law (625 ILCS 5/7 — 100 et seq. (West 1996)). The trial court concluded that such a structure is contrary to public policy and entered a judgment confirming an arbitration panel’s award in favor of the insured, Dennis Parker. Defendant American Family Insurance Company (American Family) appeals. We affirm.

FACTS

Parker…