Invern, Inc. has a self-insurance plan. Each year, retained earnings is appropriated for contingencies in an amount equal to insurance premiums saved less recognized losses from lawsuits and other claims. As a result of a 2006 accident, Invern is a defendant in a lawsuit in which it will probably have to pay damages of $190,000. What are the effects of this lawsuit’s probable outcome on Invern’s 2006 financial statements?
- An increase in expenses and no effect on liabilities.
- An increase in both expenses and liabilities.
- No effect on expenses and an increase in liabilities.
- No effect on either expenses or liabilities.