Impaired Risk

"Impaired Risk" in the context of life and health insurance refers to individuals who pose a higher risk to insurers due to their health conditions, lifestyle choices, occupations, or hobbies that significantly increase their likelihood of filing a claim. This category includes people with chronic or serious health problems, those engaged in high-risk occupations (such as jobs requiring work at extreme heights or depths, or in hazardous conditions), or individuals who participate in dangerous hobbies (like skydiving or deep-sea diving).

An impaired risk is identified through the underwriting process, where insurers evaluate an applicant's health records, occupational hazards, and lifestyle factors. Being classified as an impaired risk can impact an individual's insurance application in several ways:

• Coverage Eligibility: Individuals identified as impaired risks may face challenges in qualifying for standard insurance coverage. Insurers might deny coverage based on the perceived increased risk of claim due to the individual's health condition or lifestyle.
• Premium Rates: If a person classified as an impaired risk qualifies for coverage, they are likely to pay higher premiums compared to individuals who are considered standard risks. This is because insurers view them as more likely to utilize the policy benefits, thereby representing a higher cost to the company.
• Specialized Policies: Some insurance companies offer specialized policies for impaired risks, designed to accommodate the increased risk at a higher premium or with specific exclusions related to the condition or activity that categorizes them as such.

For example, someone with a medical history of strokes represents an impaired risk due to the increased likelihood of future health-related claims. Insurers might offer them coverage with adjusted terms and conditions, reflecting the heightened risk associated with insuring the individual.