Analysis of the Judgment Cass. Civ., Sez. Unite n. 22437/2018: The Claims Made Clauses in Insurance

The judgment n. 22437/2018 of the Court of Cassation, United Sections, addressed a highly relevant issue in the field of insurance, namely the validity of "claims made" clauses. These clauses, which limit the insurer's obligation to indemnify to claims for which a request has been made during the validity of the policy, have raised significant legal questions and concerns about their merit.

The Case Under Review

The appeal was filed by Manitowoc Crane Group Italy S.R.L. against Allianz S.P.A., following an incident that occurred in 2002, when a crane arm fell and damaged a warehouse. The central issue concerned the validity of a claims made clause included in the insurance contracts signed by Manitowoc. The Court of Appeal of Venice had initially upheld Allianz's appeal, arguing that the clause was neither void nor unfair, but Manitowoc contested this decision in the Court of Cassation.

The claims made clause, while considered atypical, cannot be declared void solely for the reason that it limits the subject matter of the insurance contract.

The Court's Conclusions

The Court of Cassation, partially accepting the appeal, established a fundamental legal principle: the model of civil liability insurance with claims made clauses is valid, provided it complies with current regulations. The Court clarified that the object of the insurance must remain anchored to the concept of loss, understood not as a request for compensation, but as a damaging event.

  • The validity of claims made clauses is recognized, but they must respect the balance between the rights of the parties.
  • The insurance contract must be suitable to the interests of the parties, ensuring effective coverage.
  • The clauses cannot create disadvantageous situations for the insured, such as limiting the right to indemnification.

Implications for the Insurance Sector

This judgment has significant implications for the insurance sector, as it provides a clear framework regarding the use of claims made clauses. Insurance companies must pay attention to the drafting of contracts, ensuring that there are no conditions that may be deemed unfair or inequitable for the insured. Adherence to merit and contractual balance is essential to ensure the validity of policies and the protection of the rights of the insured.

Conclusions

The judgment n. 22437/2018 of the Court of Cassation represents a step forward in clarifying the regulations concerning claims made clauses in the insurance sector. It underscores the importance of proper disclosure and a balanced contract, safeguarding the rights of the insured and promoting greater transparency in contractual relationships.

Bianucci Law Firm