Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: Plain-language law
Overinsurance: When you have too much insurance for something, like buying too many policies or getting more insurance than the thing is worth. It's like having too many coats when you only need one. It's not necessary and can be a waste of money.
Definition: Overinsurance refers to having more insurance coverage than the actual value of the item being insured. It can also refer to having unnecessary or redundant insurance policies.
Example 1: John owns a car worth $10,000 and has three different insurance policies that cover the car. The total coverage he has is $30,000. This is an example of overinsurance because the coverage exceeds the value of the car.
Example 2: Mary has health insurance through her employer and also purchased a private health insurance policy. Both policies cover the same medical expenses. This is an example of overinsurance because Mary has duplicated coverage that is not needed.
These examples illustrate how overinsurance can occur when someone has more insurance coverage than necessary or when they have duplicated coverage. Overinsurance can lead to higher premiums and unnecessary expenses.