In this session we discuss the dirty words no one in the insurance business should say; how the insurance application is a forum for “creative lying;” and a quick word on the use of disclaimers.

We in the insurance industry tend to throw around terminology like words don’t have meaning. Although we think we “know” what is meant by the terms we use, the insurance-buying public doesn’t. They think these words mean exactly what they sound like they mean. “Full Coverage” and “All Risk” hold far different meanings in the real world. When we hear language like this used in an insurance context, we should expect to hear a “bleep” in its place – for these are words no polite insurance professional should EVER use in conversation.

Beyond cussing, sometimes we in the insurance industry tend to lie. We may not mean to lie, but we do – using an “official” document – the insurance application. Granted, ambiguities within the application may lead to “lying,” but insurance professionals know how to address these ambiguities.

And what about the use of disclaimers? Agents use disclaimers, or should, on quotes, proposals, coverage descriptions, etc. But are these disclaimers worth the time and effort? Well, it depends.

By the time this session is over, attendees will clean up their language, be more “truthful” and understand the power and limitations of disclaimers. You might say this is a lesson in insurance etiquette.