West Va.’s BrickStreet Sued Over Agent Commissions

Two companies are suing West Virginia’s workers’ compensation writer BrickStreet Mutual Insurance Co. over agent commissions.

Aero-Fab Inc. and The Bunch Co. allege that Brickstreet is billing companies for the commissions as part of their premiums, even if they don’t have agents. The companies want BrickStreet to refund the payments. Their lawyers are seeking class-action status for the lawsuit.

BrickStreet denies the allegations and says it is following regulations established by the state insurance commissioner. BrickStreet has the exclusive right to provide workers’ compensation until next July. After that, companies can seek coverage from other insurers.