Kahjujuhtumit

Kahjujuhtumit is a term used in Estonian civil law and insurance practice to describe an event that causes damage or loss, potentially giving rise to a claim. The word is formed from kahju, meaning damage, and juhtum, meaning incident or case. In everyday use it refers to any incident resulting in physical damage, financial loss, or liability.

The concept covers a range of situations, including property damage (such as a fire, flood, or structural failure), vehicular accidents, or personal injury, as well as damage for which third parties may seek compensation. It can involve accidental, negligent, or sometimes intentional events, depending on the policy terms and applicable law. Natural disasters or vandalism may also be described as kahjujuhtum, when they lead to insured losses.

In insurance practice, a kahjujuhtum triggers the claims process. The insured typically must report the incident to the insurer promptly, provide documentation (photos, estimates, police or incident reports), and cooperate with investigations. An adjuster or claims handler assesses the damage, determines coverage under the policy, and estimates compensation or repairs. Decisions may result in a payout, repair authorization, or a denial of the claim, subject to contractual terms and legal rights.

Legally, kahjujuhtum is used to define events that may create liability or entitle a claimant to compensation under contracts, insurance policies, or civil law. It is distinct from mere wear and tear or preexisting defects, which are generally not considered kahjujuhtum.

Examples include a car collision, a fire damaging a home, or a water leak causing property damage and subsequent repairs.