Barron v. Shelter Mutual Insurance Co.

Introduction

A fatal boating accident occurred on Lake Pomme de Terre in Hickory County. Shelter Insurance’s insured’s boat crashed into plaintiffs’ pontoon boat while competing in a night time fishing tournament. Plaintiffs 1 sued Shelter’s insureds for personal injury and wrongful death. 2 The parties reached a settlement agreement whereby Shelter would pay the plaintiffs any amounts available under the policies. The parties disputed various coverages under the policies, but agreed to resolve the dispute by this declaratory judgment action. The circuit court granted the plaintiffs’ motion…