Simplifying commonly used insurance jargon 16^th February 2023

While checking any insurance plan, you most likely come across terms like deductibles, premiums, adjuster, etc. If you're unfamiliar with them, you may be confused and make wrong financial decisions.

It is now a given that everyone needs to have basic knowledge of terms relevant to general insurance. If not, you will find it daunting to buy insurance or apply for one. In such a case, it is extremely easy to get tricked. You will likely fall into the trap of fraudsters who can get more money from your lack of awareness and appropriate knowledge. Not knowing things can make the job easier for them.

If you need help understanding a few commonly used insurance jargon, this article is for you. This article will walk you through the various essential terms related to insurance. Prepare to dive into the world of simplified general insurance jargon that aids in making better financial decisions and equips you to help your peers and share your knowledge!

1. Claim:
This is one of the most important terms related to insurance used in all policies, including non-general and general insurance. A claim refers to the compensation or coverage of an incurred loss. It is a request to the insurance company to compensate you in cash or in kind for the loss you have encountered. It can be filed in case of a road accident, robbery, or even a natural disaster.

2. Adjuster:
An insurance company employs an adjuster to settle various claims. They investigate, examine, and evaluate before finalising any claim. The adjuster investigates all the crucial concerns. Be it the cause of loss, insurance coverage, the value of the loss, the amount of loss, and so on. Only after the adjuster adequately investigates everything the insurance company settles the claim.

3. Peril:
As the name suggests, this refers to a potential threat or danger that puts the insured at risk. It can also put an insured item or property at risk. It can be due to any irreversible causes and out of control. For instance, theft, fire, floods, and so on.

4. Deductibles:
This refers to the money to be paid by the insured for insurance coverage before the insurance company starts paying for the insurance policy. This amount is generally deducted from the claim before it is handed over to the insured.

5. Premium:
This refers to the amount paid to the insurance company to secure you against any damages or losses. It is a variable amount that depends on many factors while buying insurance.

6. Liability coverage:
As the name suggests, it protects the insured against any claim raised towards the damages and injuries caused to third parties or property.

7. Nominee:
This refers to a person entitled to receive the insurance claim if the insured dies. The insurance company redirects the claim to the rightful nominee declared by the insured as per the terms and conditions of the policy. They are generally the dependent, your spouse, child, parents, etc.

8. Waiting period:
This is the time that a policyholder has to wait before applying for a claim. Depending on various factors, the policy's terms & conditions, it can range from a few months to a few years.

With general insurance becoming necessary to protect your highly-valued assets and your finances, everyone must understand basic insurance jargon before evaluating and comparing policies. Only when you are aware of the basic terms can you buy the best insurance for yourself! Keep yourself aligned with the advancements of the insurance sector and buy general insurance online to get better offers and attractive premiums that account for efficient coverage.

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Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.