Canney v. Travelers Insurance Co.

Raleigh Canney, the original plaintiff, now de ceased, was covered by a group accident and dismemberment insurance policy issued by defendant. The policy provided that the loss of a leg or other member must be caused by accidental, violent and external means, independently of all other causes. Canney’s right big toe was injured on August 27, 1963 when a stove cover accidentally fell on it. The toe became infected and the right leg had to be amputated below the knee because it had become gangrenous. Canney had been a diabetic for many years. The question at the trial was what caused the loss…