A Maryland federal judge partially sided with business owners whose establishments were damaged in a fire, determining their breach of contract claim against their insurer State Automobile had standing and that they were entitled to $235,274.

In a July 28 opinion, U.S. District Judge Deborah K. Chasanow of the District of Maryland partially sided with plaintiffs Rod & Reel Inc., Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa, Chesapeake Beach Hotel and Spa, Smokey Joe's Grill and Boardwalk Café, and Chesapeake Amusements Inc. The establishments consisted of a hotel, restaurants, entertainment venues, and also as a wedding venue, and the plaintiffs were insured with a commercial property insurance policy issued by State Automobile Mutual Insurance Co.

The businesses were damaged due to a fire and the plaintiffs sought a claim with their insurance company for loss of business income and its extra expenses incurred.