Calculation of the Loss - Actual Cash Value or Replacement Value

In paying the loss suffered by a policyholder when property is damaged or destroyed, an insurance company normally will consider its obligation to be to pay the present or depreciated value of the property just before its loss. Thus, destruction of a well-used item could result in a minimal recovery for the policyholder. A policyholder may purchase a relatively inexpensive rider to the policy providing for reimbursement of the replacement value of the damaged or destroyed item. Examination of the insurance policy and any rider should provide details on coverage under the policy for either actual cash value or replacement value.

Types of Disability Coverage in Life and Health Insurance

The definition of "disability" is subjective because some people can work without complaint with a condition that would disable and incapacitate others. A typical life and health insurance policy may define disability insurance as including insurance related to injury, disablement, or death resulting to the insured from accidents or sickness.

Partnerships Entitled to Life Insurance Proceeds

Generally, the legal entity of a partnership dissolves when one partner dies. However, partners may enter into an agreement during the life of the partnership to enable the surviving partners to continue with the business when one partner dies. A life insurance policy may be an appropriate means of accomplishing this purpose.

Service of Process on Insurer

In order for an insured or any other party to sue an insurer, a court must obtain personal jurisdiction over the insurer. To accomplish this, an insurer must be served with process in a proper manner. There are several methods of serving an insurer.

The Distinction Between an Insurance Agent and an Insurance Broker

Insurance agents act on behalf of one or more insurance companies. That relationship between the insurance agent and the insurance company provides authority for the agent to act for and bind the insurance company. Insurance brokers, on the other hand, represent insurance purchasers rather than insurance companies even though insurance brokers may receive their commissions from insurance companies. Insurance brokers do not have authority under principal-agent or employer-employee theories to bind the insurance companies that provide the policies insuring companies or individuals.