Film production company that dropped camera lens in marsh sues insurer for not covering $34K for rental camera

GRETNA – A local film production company is suing its insurer for allegedly not reimbursing for numerous props and other damaged items.

Velocity Agency LLC filed suit against Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company in the 24th Judicial District Court on July 30.

Film production company Velocity Agency claims Fireman’s Insurance Company covers its props, set, wardrobe, property damages from third parties, damage to equipment, negative films, faulty film stock and cast. The plaintiff alleges after their initial contract it later added a clause to cover extra expenses to resume operation of the business after a delay, including during a period of restoration.

Velocity Agency asserts it was shooting a piece entitled “Salt Flats Flying” and that during filming a lens worth $48,000 fell off the camera and sank to the bottom of a marsh and that a new lens could not be reordered for 18-24 months because it was custom made.

The plaintiff claims that its insurer only valued the lens at $36,800 and that rental fees of $34,300 for another camera to be used during the waiting period for a new lens was refused. Velocity Agency alleges that an independent adjuster found that Fireman’s Insurance Company should have paid the entire amount

The defendant is accused of bad faith and placing a financial strain of the plaintiff.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for compensatory damages and attorney’s fees.

Velocity Agency is represented by attorney C. Michael Williams of New Orleans.

The case has been assigned to Division C Judge June Berry Darensburg.

Case no. 729-470.