Verliesbeperking

Verliesbeperking, also known as loss limitation, is a financial strategy used by insurance companies to manage the risk of large claims. It involves setting a maximum amount that the insurer will pay out for a particular type of loss. This cap is typically a percentage of the insured's total assets or the value of the insured property. The purpose of verliesbeperking is to protect the insurer from financial ruin in the event of a catastrophic loss, which could otherwise lead to insolvency.

The implementation of verliesbeperking can vary depending on the type of insurance and the specific circumstances of the insured. For example, in property insurance, the cap might be a percentage of the property's value. In liability insurance, it could be a percentage of the insured's total assets. The exact percentage and the conditions under which the cap applies are usually outlined in the insurance policy.

Verliesbeperking is a controversial topic in the insurance industry. Proponents argue that it helps to stabilize the insurance market and prevent moral hazard, where insured parties take on excessive risks knowing they are protected against large losses. Critics, however, contend that it can lead to underinsurance, as policyholders may not adequately protect themselves against potential risks due to the knowledge that their losses will be capped.

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards the abolition of verliesbeperking in certain jurisdictions, with some countries and regions adopting a no-fault insurance system. This system, which is common in the United States, aims to reduce the financial burden on insurers by limiting the amount they can be sued for, regardless of fault.