American Empire Surplus Lines Insurance v. Bay Area Cab Lease, Inc.
Opinion
Opinion
Ingram, J.
ORDER
I.
For the reasons set out below, the motion of plaintiff AMERICAN EMPIRE for SUMMARY JUDGMENT is HEREBY GRANTED.
II.
This case arises out of a coverage dispute between an insurer and its insured. American Empire Surplus Lines Insurance Co. (American Empire) issued an Owner’s, Landlord’s & Tenant’s Liability policy to defendant Bay Area Cab Lease, Inc. (Cab Co.) for the period covering Sept., 1988 to Sept., 1989.
Between Oct. 20, 1988 and Oct. 26, 1988 Donald Edwards Woods (Woods), one of Cab Co.’s drivers, molested an 8 year old, retarded boy (Shawn J.) in his cab. The assault took place in Palo Alto, in the parking lot of Shawn’s school. Cab Co.’s business premises is located in Menlo Park.
Woods was convicted on two felony counts and sentenced to state prison. Shawn, through his guardian ad litem, brought a civil action against Woods, Cab Co., and the school district. The complaint alleges negligence in Woods’ conduct towards Shawn, and in Cab Co.’s hiring and supervision of Woods. Shawn also charges Woods, as an agent and employee of Cab Co. and the school district, with an intentional tort; specifically, sexual molestation.