April 2, 2004

Los Angeles, CA - Parties in a toxic mold case between actor Lou Ferrigno and Mercury Insurance Company (Case No. BC288783) reached a confidential settlement today, according to Brian S. Kabateck, partner with Los Angeles-based Kabateck & Garris LLP and attorney for Ferrigno and his wife, Carla. The settlement was reached after the case had gone to trial earlier this week in Los Angeles Superior Court.

?The Ferrignos are very pleased with the settlement,? says Kabateck. ?They now hope to put the terrible past two years behind them.?

Ferrigno, best known for his role as television's "The Hulk," and his family sued Mercury Insurance Company, charging the insurance carrier failed to properly inspect and repair a water leak in their home. The result, according to the Ferrignos' complaint, was severe water and mold damage throughout the home's bedrooms, bathrooms, hallways, living room and dining room. The Ferrignos argued that the damage could have been quickly eliminated had Mercury properly investigated their claim.

The initial water damage occurred in 2002. When the claim dispute became protracted, the Ferrignos decided to pay for repairs to their home at their own expense. ?They were left with no other choice because mold exposure has proven to be toxic and they feared for the safety of their family,? says Kabateck. ?They were forced to live out of their home for approximately three months while structural repairs were being made and the mold was removed.?

Prior to trial, the Ferrignos were demanding $265,718.78 for damages, reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses and punitive damages.