Treasure Sutton, Associate Attorney at Singleton Schreiber, examines the ongoing impact of racial bias in personal injury cases involving Black Americans and outlines the firm’s initiatives to address these challenges. Drawing on research and personal experience, she demonstrates how bias can affect medical records, damage calculations, and consistent access to treatment, often limiting recovery for Black plaintiffs. Sutton notes that systemic issues place Black communities at greater risk and calls on insurers, defense attorneys, and courts to reconsider practices that perpetuate inequality. Her perspective underscores Singleton Schreiber’s commitment to client-centered advocacy that upholds dignity, combats bias, and advances justice throughout the year, including during Black History Month.
At a time when Californians face increasing risks from wildfires, rising medical costs, and ongoing litigation, the state’s largest insurer, State Farm, is now withdrawing critical protections—leaving policyholders exposed when they need coverage most.
In a recent move, State Farm has announced a sweeping list of disqualifying traits and activities that make policyholders ineligible for its California Personal Liability Umbrella Program, a type of policy that offers at least $1 million in extra protection. The exclusions now include everyday situations, such as homeowners who have filed just two claims in five years. So, filing for smoke, water, or storm damage, risks that are increasingly common in California due to extreme weather and wildfires, can now put ordinary homeowners at risk of losing essential coverage for routine events.
For many, these umbrella policies are not luxuries, they serve as a lifeline and essential safeguard. Removing access to this level of protection leaves countless individuals and families at risk of financial devastation.
Homeowner’s insurance is a vital safety net for Californians, especially in areas prone to natural disasters such as wildfires. Yet, recent trends indicate that obtaining adequate coverage has become increasingly harder. Premiums are escalating, coverage options are diminishing, and insurance companies, such as State Farm, are dropping policyholders and non-renewing policies at an alarming rate.
