Summary Comparison Worksheets

 November 2, 2010

 The Summary Comparison Worksheets (worksheets) in this section of FC&S D&O compare many key features of different directors & officers policy forms. The first page of each worksheet bears the name of the issuing insurer, form number, and edition date of the policy to which it applies. Coded symbols indicate when a policy form contains the queried term or provision. The key to these symbols is located at the top center of the first page of each worksheet. The "·" symbol is used to indicate that the policy substantially conforms with the worksheet query. A dash (—) means that the policy does not contain or directly address the queried worksheet entry. A "â—‹" means that we are unable to determine the answer to the query, possibly because policy wording is somewhat ambiguous.

 Because insurers change their policy forms over time, and in our continuous effort to improve the quality and breadth of information provided in this service, we periodically revise the Summary Comparison Worksheets to include new or different key features. A blank copy of the most recent version of the worksheet can be found at this link. Newly-received policy forms are reviewed using the latest version of the worksheet, and worksheets that were prepared previously will be converted to the latest version of the worksheet in upcoming supplements.

 Most insurers modify their policy forms by endorsements, which can restrict coverage severely. Because the underwriter's use of endorsements varies in response to the specific risk characteristics of the insured, our comparison is limited to the basic policy form. Where insurers have indicated coverage modifications are available by endorsement, this information appears in the Comments section of the worksheets.

 Although the Summary Comparison Worksheets contain more than 160 line entries or queries of policy features relating to the application, coverage format, definitions, exclusions, conditions, and other policy provisions, the charts do not and are not intended to address all details of coverage provided by each policy. The worksheets are, however, a powerful analytical tool when a quick and limited comparison of policy forms is desired. The worksheet entries are grouped to correspond generally to chapter discussions in FC&S D&O. However, some worksheet entries may not be specifically addressed in the text.

 The worksheets are intended only to illustrate the many differences between policy forms. They are not our coverage recommendations, nor do we endorse the use of any particular insurer or policy form. Both FC&S D&O and the Summary Comparison Worksheets are intended to be educational and illustrative in nature, providing the reader a basis for conducting his own evaluation. No reference work is a substitute for independent review of the basic policy form, application, declaration, and endorsements. Always read the policy.

 Can't Find What You Need?

 While we have attempted to base the information contained in the worksheets on the latest versions of the various D&O insurance policies, the forms are constantly being revised and updated. If you do not find a summary comparison worksheet in the latest edition of FC&S D&O that you need, we can help.

 Simply complete the Summary Comparison Worksheet Request Form and send it to us. One of our technical editors will complete a review of the policy form using our standard summary comparison worksheets and send it back to you.

 CD Forms

 Subscribers to FC&S D&O in print receive a CD containing all Summary Comparison Worksheets and related forms that we have completed to date. The CD provides easy access to this related information. Online subscribers will find all forms in the Policy Summary Comparison Worksheets section.

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