State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance v. Smith

The primary issue in this appeal is whether, in an automobile liability insurance policy, an “automobile business exclusion” violates the public policy of Illinois.

BACKGROUND

On September 21, 1995, Maurice Barnes, accompanied by Ruby Smith, drove his vehicle to Harrah’s Casino Cruises — Joliet (Harrah’s). Barnes gave his vehicle to the valet service at Harrah’s for parking. When Barnes and Smith left Harrah’s, Jeremy Fisher, a valet driver employed by Harrah’s, retrieved Barnes’ automobile. Smith has alleged that, as she entered the passenger door, the vehicle rolled backwards, striking her…