How does a deliberate or intentional act to injure oneself affect insurance coverage?

When an individual engages in a deliberate or intentional act to injure themselves, it typically leads to claim denial under most insurance policies. Insurance contracts are based on the principle of indemnity; they are designed to provide coverage for unforeseen events and damages. Deliberate self-harm is seen as an intentional act, which is generally excluded from coverage because insurers do not want to incentivize or cover behavior that individuals knowingly engage in to inflict harm upon themselves.

Insurers usually include specific exclusions in their policies that state they will not provide benefits for claims arising from intentional acts. Therefore, if a claim results from such self-inflicted injuries, the insurer would most likely deny coverage based on this exclusion, protecting their exposure to losses stemming from intentional actions. This understanding is critical for both consumers and insurance professionals, as it highlights the importance of comprehending the limitations and exclusions inherent in insurance policies.