Actually it may not be as bad as it seems. While most insurance companies will have a go at avoiding anything they can, I believe that you will find most states have an insurance ombudsman and also state legislation that effectively requires the insurer to show that (using this case as an example) the cargo barrier caused or contributed to the accident or injury - for example something coming through the barrier they would have trouble proving that the barrier was the cause of the injury, but if it came loose and hit someone then they would have a case, although even then it would not be automatic, for example if the barrier had your unrestrained 50kg toolbox behind it.
Going to the insurance ombudsman is low cost, probably free in most cases, but you still may have to take the insurance company to court - and I have heard of some individuals winning on large claims, such as flood damage, although it can take years.
John
