South Carolina Personal Lines Practice Exam

When does pro rata liability apply in insurance policies?

1. When there is a lapse in insurance coverage

2. When the insured has only one policy

3. When the insured has more than one policy covering a loss

4. When a claim is filed

The correct answer is: When the insured has more than one policy covering a loss

Pro rata liability applies in situations where the insured has more than one policy covering a loss. This principle stipulates that when multiple insurance policies are in effect, each policy contributes to the total amount of the loss on a proportional basis. This ensures that no single insurer is responsible for the entire claim if multiple policies are applicable. For instance, if the total loss is $100,000 and the insured has two policies, one covering $60,000 and the other $40,000, each policy would cover its respective share of the loss based on their limits. Therefore, the first policy would contribute $60,000, while the second policy would contribute $40,000, fulfilling the total loss without exceeding their respective limits. This concept is crucial in managing the financial exposure of insurers and preventing situations where an insured receives an undue benefit that exceeds the actual loss, ensuring fairness in the distribution of losses among multiple coverages.