Must-Read East Insurance Journal Highlights of 2025
In 2025, Insurance Journal East delivered a wealth of news that captivated its readers. While interest spanned various topics, certain articles garnered heightened attention, particularly those covering tragic events, recovery efforts, insurance affordability, fraud, legal battles, and court rulings on coverage. Below are the standout stories from Insurance Journal East in 2025.
1. Uber Driving Lower Insurance Costs
Uber Spends Six Figures on Ads in Latest NY Insurance Reform Push
Recalling the 2010 campaign by Jimmy McMillan, many in New York, including Uber Technologies, believe auto insurance costs are “too damn high.” This sentiment follows the insolvency of New York’s largest taxi insurer in 2024 and alleged legal system abuses. Uber is investing millions in advertising to persuade lawmakers to lower insurance costs for drivers, including rideshare operators. The company is a key supporter of Citizens for Affordable Rates (CAR), advocating for reduced insurance costs across various sectors. Additionally, Uber has filed racketeering lawsuits against personal injury law firms, alleging they stage fake accidents to exploit no-fault insurance policies. Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed measures to stabilize the insurance market, while New York City has lowered coverage requirements for for-hire drivers. However, rideshare drivers were recently informed of a 25% premium increase over the next three years, prompting Uber to call for an investigation into the reasons behind rising costs.
2. Baltimore Bridge Collapse a Year Later
Single Loose Wire Led to Blackout That Caused Dali Crash Into Baltimore Bridge
A loose wire in the electrical system of the containership Dali caused a blackout that led to its fatal collision with Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge in 2024. Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revealed that this incident triggered a series of failures, resulting in two vessel blackouts and loss of control. This report reignited discussions on the economic impact of the bridge collapse, the recovery efforts, and ongoing litigation regarding accountability and costs associated with rebuilding.
3. Tragedy at Assisted Living Facility
Deadly Massachusetts Fire Highlights Assisted Living Regulation, Staffing
A devastating fire at the Gabriel House in New Bedford, Massachusetts, resulted in the deaths of 10 individuals and injured 30 others. This incident, the deadliest in the state in four decades, is believed to have been caused by either smoking or an electrical malfunction. The tragedy has prompted scrutiny of safety regulations and staffing practices in assisted living facilities, leading to calls for stricter safety measures. Lawsuits have already begun, with four residents suing the facility’s owner and the fire safety equipment firm.
4. June Brings Twin Data Breaches
Erie and Philadelphia Insurance Still Working on Restoring Their Networks
June witnessed two major Pennsylvania insurers facing network outages that affected their systems. Insurers assured agents and customers that the issues were not related to ransomware, and all systems were eventually restored.
5. Teacher Shot by Student Wins at Trial
Jury Awards $10 Million to Virginia Teacher Shot by 6-Year Old Student
A jury awarded $10 million to Abby Zwerner, a teacher shot by her 6-year-old student in January 2023. Zwerner initially sought $40 million against a former assistant principal, who did not testify during the trial. The Newport News School Board argued that Zwerner’s claims were barred by workers’ compensation laws, but the courts ruled in her favor, stating that being shot by a student is not an expected risk of the teaching profession.
6. Insurance Not Triggered in Killing
Insurers Escape Coverage for Parents Accused of Hiding Son’s Murder Weapon
In a notable court ruling, a Pennsylvania couple was denied coverage under their homeowners and umbrella insurance policies after being accused of hiding the gun used by their son to commit murder. The federal appeals court upheld the dismissal of their claims, stating that their actions were not accidental and that criminal acts are not covered by insurance.
7. Ice Cream Recall Dispute
Ice Cream Sandwich Maker Blames Agent for Lack of Recall Insurance After $4.5M Loss
In a case that drew significant attention, the maker of Chipwich ice cream sandwiches sued its insurance broker for negligence in failing to secure product recall insurance, resulting in a $4.5 million loss. The Connecticut-based manufacturer claims the broker left it unprotected during a product recall. The case is ongoing, with a judge recently denying the broker’s motion to dismiss key aspects of the lawsuit.
8. Battling Trial Attorneys
Two High-Profile Personal Injury Law Firms Sue… Each Other
In a surprising twist, two prominent Boston-area personal injury law firms have turned against each other, alleging theft of trade secrets and unfair competition. Each firm claims the other has infringed upon its successful business model, leading to a legal battle that has captured the attention of the insurance community.
9. Law Firms Scheming?
Racketeering Suit Alleges NY Insurance Fraud Scheme by Lawyers, Medical Providers
A New York specialty insurance managing underwriter has filed a federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) lawsuit against a personal injury law firm and numerous medical providers. The suit alleges a scheme to defraud insurers through staged accidents and unnecessary medical treatments. This extensive legal action highlights ongoing concerns about fraud in the insurance industry.
10. Brown University Shooting
Frustration Mounts as Brown University Shooter Remains at Large
The December 13 shooting at Brown University resulted in the deaths of two students and injuries to nine others. The alleged shooter, connected to another shooting incident, was later found dead in New Hampshire. This tragedy has raised significant concerns regarding campus security and the adequacy of safety measures in place at educational institutions.
The most important insurance news, in your inbox every business day.
Get the insurance industry’s trusted newsletter
In 2025, Insurance Journal East delivered a wealth of news that captivated its readers. While interest spanned various topics, certain articles garnered heightened attention, particularly those covering tragic events, recovery efforts, insurance affordability, fraud, legal battles, and court rulings on coverage. Below are the standout stories from Insurance Journal East in 2025.
1. Uber Driving Lower Insurance Costs
Uber Spends Six Figures on Ads in Latest NY Insurance Reform Push
Recalling the 2010 campaign by Jimmy McMillan, many in New York, including Uber Technologies, believe auto insurance costs are “too damn high.” This sentiment follows the insolvency of New York’s largest taxi insurer in 2024 and alleged legal system abuses. Uber is investing millions in advertising to persuade lawmakers to lower insurance costs for drivers, including rideshare operators. The company is a key supporter of Citizens for Affordable Rates (CAR), advocating for reduced insurance costs across various sectors. Additionally, Uber has filed racketeering lawsuits against personal injury law firms, alleging they stage fake accidents to exploit no-fault insurance policies. Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed measures to stabilize the insurance market, while New York City has lowered coverage requirements for for-hire drivers. However, rideshare drivers were recently informed of a 25% premium increase over the next three years, prompting Uber to call for an investigation into the reasons behind rising costs.
2. Baltimore Bridge Collapse a Year Later
Single Loose Wire Led to Blackout That Caused Dali Crash Into Baltimore Bridge
A loose wire in the electrical system of the containership Dali caused a blackout that led to its fatal collision with Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge in 2024. Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revealed that this incident triggered a series of failures, resulting in two vessel blackouts and loss of control. This report reignited discussions on the economic impact of the bridge collapse, the recovery efforts, and ongoing litigation regarding accountability and costs associated with rebuilding.
3. Tragedy at Assisted Living Facility
Deadly Massachusetts Fire Highlights Assisted Living Regulation, Staffing
A devastating fire at the Gabriel House in New Bedford, Massachusetts, resulted in the deaths of 10 individuals and injured 30 others. This incident, the deadliest in the state in four decades, is believed to have been caused by either smoking or an electrical malfunction. The tragedy has prompted scrutiny of safety regulations and staffing practices in assisted living facilities, leading to calls for stricter safety measures. Lawsuits have already begun, with four residents suing the facility’s owner and the fire safety equipment firm.
4. June Brings Twin Data Breaches
Erie and Philadelphia Insurance Still Working on Restoring Their Networks
June witnessed two major Pennsylvania insurers facing network outages that affected their systems. Insurers assured agents and customers that the issues were not related to ransomware, and all systems were eventually restored.
5. Teacher Shot by Student Wins at Trial
Jury Awards $10 Million to Virginia Teacher Shot by 6-Year Old Student
A jury awarded $10 million to Abby Zwerner, a teacher shot by her 6-year-old student in January 2023. Zwerner initially sought $40 million against a former assistant principal, who did not testify during the trial. The Newport News School Board argued that Zwerner’s claims were barred by workers’ compensation laws, but the courts ruled in her favor, stating that being shot by a student is not an expected risk of the teaching profession.
6. Insurance Not Triggered in Killing
Insurers Escape Coverage for Parents Accused of Hiding Son’s Murder Weapon
In a notable court ruling, a Pennsylvania couple was denied coverage under their homeowners and umbrella insurance policies after being accused of hiding the gun used by their son to commit murder. The federal appeals court upheld the dismissal of their claims, stating that their actions were not accidental and that criminal acts are not covered by insurance.
7. Ice Cream Recall Dispute
Ice Cream Sandwich Maker Blames Agent for Lack of Recall Insurance After $4.5M Loss
In a case that drew significant attention, the maker of Chipwich ice cream sandwiches sued its insurance broker for negligence in failing to secure product recall insurance, resulting in a $4.5 million loss. The Connecticut-based manufacturer claims the broker left it unprotected during a product recall. The case is ongoing, with a judge recently denying the broker’s motion to dismiss key aspects of the lawsuit.
8. Battling Trial Attorneys
Two High-Profile Personal Injury Law Firms Sue… Each Other
In a surprising twist, two prominent Boston-area personal injury law firms have turned against each other, alleging theft of trade secrets and unfair competition. Each firm claims the other has infringed upon its successful business model, leading to a legal battle that has captured the attention of the insurance community.
9. Law Firms Scheming?
Racketeering Suit Alleges NY Insurance Fraud Scheme by Lawyers, Medical Providers
A New York specialty insurance managing underwriter has filed a federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) lawsuit against a personal injury law firm and numerous medical providers. The suit alleges a scheme to defraud insurers through staged accidents and unnecessary medical treatments. This extensive legal action highlights ongoing concerns about fraud in the insurance industry.
10. Brown University Shooting
Frustration Mounts as Brown University Shooter Remains at Large
The December 13 shooting at Brown University resulted in the deaths of two students and injuries to nine others. The alleged shooter, connected to another shooting incident, was later found dead in New Hampshire. This tragedy has raised significant concerns regarding campus security and the adequacy of safety measures in place at educational institutions.
The most important insurance news, in your inbox every business day.
Get the insurance industry’s trusted newsletter
