Contract
What Does Contract Mean?
A contract is an agreement between two parties, typically documented in writing and made legally binding through the signatures of the involved parties.
An insurance contract, specifically, is an agreement between the insured and the insurer. The insured agrees to pay a premium to obtain certain benefits, while the insurer commits to providing those benefits within a specified period, as outlined in the terms of the agreement.
Insuranceopedia Explains Contract
An insurance contract is valid when both the insured and the insurer have agreed to its terms, typically confirmed by the signatures of both parties or their legal representatives.
Another key requirement for the contract’s validity is the receipt of premium payments. The insured is not only expected to sign the contract but also to make the necessary payment. Some policies do not provide coverage until the full premium is paid, while others may allow partial payments.
Additionally, the insurance contract operates on the principle of utmost good faith. This means that both parties must voluntarily disclose all relevant facts necessary for drafting the policy. Failure to do so can render the contract invalid. If the insured is at fault, they forfeit their right to compensation or benefits. Conversely, if the insurer breaches this principle, they may face legal consequences and be required to compensate the insured for damages.