What is typically excluded from standard liability insurance policies?

Standard liability insurance policies generally exclude coverage for intentional acts. This exclusion is vital because liability insurance is designed to protect against unintentional harms that the insured may cause to others. If an individual or business were to intentionally cause harm or damage, allowing coverage for such acts would contradict the purpose of liability insurance, which is to cover accidents and negligent behavior rather than deliberate wrongdoing.

Intentional acts, such as fraud or assault, are fundamentally different from the risks associated with negligence, which is typically what liability insurance covers. By excluding intentional acts, the insurance maintains its focus on mitigating risks that arise from accidental actions rather than those that stem from a conscious decision to cause harm.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for anyone studying non-life insurance, as it highlights the boundaries of liability coverage and the ethical framework within which such policies operate. It underscores the principle that insurance is meant to provide financial protection against unforeseen accidents rather than support for premeditated actions that result in damage or injury.