South Carolina Personal Lines Practice Exam

What is a defining feature of liability insurance?

1. Covers direct physical loss

2. Covers injuries and damages to third parties

3. Covers property damage only

4. Provides coverage regardless of negligence

The correct answer is: Covers injuries and damages to third parties

Liability insurance is specifically designed to protect the policyholder from claims made by third parties for injuries or damages caused by the policyholder's actions or negligence. This type of insurance provides financial coverage for legal fees, settlements, and judgments related to these claims, making it essential for individuals and businesses that may be held responsible for harm caused to others. The coverage focuses on the financial responsibilities that arise from incidents resulting in bodily injury or property damage to others, thus safeguarding the insured against potential economic loss due to those liabilities. In essence, the defining feature of liability insurance lies in its role in covering the legal expenses and damages that the insured might be obligated to pay to third parties, effectively protecting them from the financial impact of such claims. This fundamental aspect distinguishes liability insurance from other types, such as property insurance, which is more concerned with covering the insured's own physical assets.