Bifurcation Of Bad Faith Claim In Wildfire Coverage Suit Not Warranted, Judge Says

(December 14, 2023, 12:54 PM EST) -- SAN FRANCISCO — Bifurcation of a bad faith claim from a breach of contract claim in a dispute over coverage for property damages sustained by an insured’s wineries during four California wildfires is not warranted, a California federal judge said after determining that judicial efficiency would not be served through bifurcation and that any potential prejudice to the insurer incurred by trying both claims together could be avoided by issuing clear and limited jury instructions....