An accident or event which happens independently of human intervention, usually due to natural causes such as storm or earthquake, which no human foresight can provide against. Suggesting that an event was an "act of God" may be a defense in English law against a claim for liability since it may be held that it could not have been foreseen or safeguarded against. One of the reasons why it can be inadvisable to drive your vehicle in adverse or dangerous weather conditions.

Professional person trained in the technical aspects of insurance and related fields who specializes in the mathematics and the calculation of premiums and reserves.

An addition or change to a contract. Also called an endorsement.

Someone who acts on behalf of another.

In certain circumstances an insurer may agree to insure a vehicle for a declared value from the outset, as opposed to paying the market value following a claim. This will usually relate to classic cars.

An insurance policy that covers all risks - except those not listed under its exclusions.

As it sounds, an insurance policy that applies for a full year rather than another specified period of time such as a holiday insurance policy.

This is a legal method employed to arrive at an acceptable agreement for two parties that are in dispute. An independent person or body listens to the situations of both parties and comes to a decision that will end up being binding for all concerned.

The ultimate recipient of a benefit under an insurance policy.

A policy that is designed to cover more than one person or more than one property.

A failure to follow a provision of a contract.

A policy that provides recovery and repair services for vehicles/motorists for when they break down.

An agent who brings two parties together, enabling them to enter into a contract to which he is not a principal. His remuneration is usually calculated as a percentage of the sum involved in the contract but may be fixed according to a tariff.