County discusses windshield and vehicle-damage claims after chip-seal work; ICAP adjuster involvement reported

Supervisors spent part of the July 7 meeting addressing citizen complaints and insurance claims that followed recent county chip-seal work. Several speakers said vehicles suffered windshield and other damage after loose aggregate was kicked up during a June 13 chip-seal event on Pleasant Plain Road and other stretches.

County staff reported that ICAP (county insurance) had been contacted, that an adjuster (Leo referenced) was reviewing legal liability, and that county staff had submitted claims through the county’s account manager (Liz) for ICAP consideration. "ICAP will basically cover the county. If you guys are legally liable for damage, then the coverage should respond," an ICAP representative said during the meeting, while also explaining that ICAP performs due diligence before paying claims.

Board members discussed claims-handling steps: citizens typically turn damage over to personal insurance first and then pursue subrogation; alternatively claimants can file directly with the county. County staff said they are coordinating with ICAP and with county auditors and adjusters to ensure claims are routed properly and to avoid administratively paying claims unless liability is clear.

Separately the board discussed vendor relationships: staff noted that Milestones owed about $28,000 and had offered to pay 85% ($~23,800) under a settlement, which would leave approximately $4,200 uncollected for the county.

Why it matters

If ICAP determines the county is legally liable, the insurer could pay claims and the county’s claims history could be affected. The handling of claims also affects resident reimbursement timelines and whether residents must use their own insurance policies first.

What’s next

County staff said they will follow up with ICAP adjuster Leo and with Liz (ICAP account manager) and will keep supervisors informed of claim determinations and any payments.