While the Marx Brothers were famous for asking “Why a Duck?” the question for CFSA’s general liability pool members could very well be, “Why a Claim?”

As CFSA’s general liability claims administrator, Bob Nixon knows the determination of which incidents become an “information only” claim or an actual claim, and how these claims are handled can sometimes be confusing. In his three-part series, beginning here, Bob demystifies the claims process, focusing on how claims may be handled and resolved.

When there’s an accident on a member’s fairground, CFSA relies upon that member for important initial information about the accident. (Sample accident report forms, along with reporting procedures, are provided for CFSA’s members in their Claims & Loss Reporting Guide and Insurance Programs/Coverages book, a.k.a. “The Red Book.” Take a look under the “General Liability” tabs One, Two and Five.)

Once an accident report is received by CFSA, information is reviewed and, if necessary, preliminary questions are asked. A decision is then made whether to create an “information only” file for record purposes or an actual claim file. At this point, CFSA may assign an independent adjuster for additional investigation, claimant contact and documentation of damages, such as medical bills or wage losses. The more serious the accident or injury, the more likely this type of follow-up is required.

Another handling option arises when the accident involves the operations of a vendor, concessionaire or facility renter. CFSA will start by obtaining a copy of the involved party’s contract and proof of liability insurance. The handling of the claim and payment, if any, may be passed on — or tendered — to the insurance company with whom the fair is listed as an “additional insured.” The good news is that the Authority tenders more claims each year than it handles.

What does an adjuster do, and what are some of the important aspects of being involved in litigation? These topics and others will be addressed in Bob’s next two articles. In the meantime, if you have any questions regarding liability claims, please call Bob Nixon at 916/263-6171.

Looking for durable, gouge-resistant indoor tables for this year’s fair and interim events? Talk to Karen Gallay, CFSA Purchasing, about Mity-Lite Tables. Once a year, Karen places a vendor-direct Mity-Lite Table order for all interested fairs, receiving in return, a volume purchase discount. The more tables purchased, the lower her price from the vendor. To help you estimate the seating capabilities of different sized round and rectangle tables, Karen provided this chart:

Tables will be ordered March 29; for more information, call Karen at (916) 263-6191.

This year’s Employee Right to Know posters, prepared by the California Chamber of Commerce, are now available for purchase. The set of two posters, available in English or Spanish, is $9.15. To order, or for more information, contact Karen at (916) 263-6191.

Just in time for spring gardening, Karen Gallay has access to low-priced bags of Palco Soil Conditioner. The conditioner, made of 90 percent sifted redwood bark and 10 percent sand, dirt and other natural ingredients, is formulated for mulching around acid-loving plants such as azaleas, tomatoes and rhododendrons. Mixed into your flower beds, the conditioner loosens packed soil and improves water retention. Another suggestion: use full bags as “sand” bags this winter, then use the mulch in spring.

The conditioner is available 60 bags per pallet, 1½ cu. ft. per bag. The price is $1.00 per bag. Quantities are limited, so call Karen today for more info, (916) 263-6191.

HAVE A CONTRIBUTION FOR

FAIR EXCHANGE?

F.Y.I. invites and encourages all fairs to contribute articles and article ideas for the Fair Exchange column. We’ll even write the article for you. For details, call Melissa Thurber at 916/263-6178.
To add F.Y.I. to your press release mailing list, send or fax releases to:

1776 Tribute Road, Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95815
Attn: Melissa Thurber
Fax: 916/646-1238
e-mail: mthurber@msn.com