Assigned Risk
Assigned risk is a term used in insurance to describe a risk that traditional insurers are unwilling to cover due to its high probability of loss. As a result, it is "assigned" to an insurer through a state-run pool or program, ensuring that the applicant can obtain some form of insurance.
What is Assigned Risk in Insurance?
In the insurance industry, the concept of assigned risk is crucial, especially for those who face difficulties in securing coverage through standard channels. Assigned risk policies are typically used when the potential for claims is too high, and private insurers are hesitant to take on the risk under normal terms.
Example: Consider a young driver with multiple speeding tickets and a recent DUI conviction seeking auto insurance. Due to their driving history, most auto insurance companies might classify them as a high-risk driver and deny coverage. In such cases, the assigned risk plan ensures they can still obtain the necessary insurance, albeit at higher premiums, through a system where insurers participate in a pool to share the risks of covering high-risk drivers.
Key Components of Assigned Risk
Risk Pooling: Assigned risk involves pooling high-risk individuals or businesses to spread out the financial risk among multiple insurance companies. This pooling is often managed by state or regional authorities to ensure fair access to insurance for all high-risk applicants.
Mandatory Participation: Insurers in certain regions may be required to participate in these assigned risk pools, taking on a proportionate share of policies. This mandatory participation helps ensure that the risk is distributed and not concentrated with one provider.
Regulated Premiums: Although premiums for assigned risk policies are typically higher than standard rates, they are regulated by state insurance departments to prevent excessive charges. These premiums are calculated based on the level of risk but must adhere to regulatory standards to ensure they are fair.
Types of Assessed Value Covered
There are various types of assessed values that can be considered in an insurance context:
Auto Insurance for High-Risk Drivers
This includes drivers with poor driving records, those who have been involved in multiple accidents, or drivers with legal infractions such as DUIs.
Professional Liability
Professionals in high-risk fields or those with claims histories might be denied coverage by regular insurers. Assigned risk pools help these individuals obtain necessary coverage.
Property Insurance
Properties located in areas prone to natural disasters (like flood zones or earthquake-prone areas) might be eligible for coverage through assigned risk plans if standard insurers deny coverage.
How Insurance Covers Assigned Risks
Insurance coverage for assigned risks is designed to offer protection despite the higher probability of claims. Insurers managing these policies use the pooled resources to cover claims, supported by the premiums paid by those in the assigned risk pool. The coverage terms might be similar to standard policies, but with certain restrictions and higher deductibles to compensate for the elevated risk.
