In insurance, a 'moral hazard' refers to:
Explanation
A moral hazard arises from a person's dishonesty or character, such as intentionally causing or padding a loss to collect insurance money. A tangible condition that increases risk (like a heart condition) is a physical hazard. Carelessness because coverage exists is a morale hazard (spelled with an 'e'). The pure chance of loss with no gain describes pure risk, not a hazard. Distinguishing these terms matters because insurers screen for moral hazard during underwriting to protect the pool.
This topic, taught in full in the California Life & Health Insurance Producer Exam guide. California Life & Health Insurance Producer Exam — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 · 14-day refund →
Practice all 716 questions free — no signup required.
Own the complete California Life & Health Insurance Producer Exam guide — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 →
Related questions on this topic
- For a life insurance policy to be valid, when must the policyowner have an insurable interest in the insured?
- The principle that allows insurers to predict losses more accurately as the number of similar exposure units increases is known as:
- An insurance policy is considered a 'contract of adhesion.' What does this mean?
- Buying an insurance policy is an example of which method of handling risk?
- Which of the following is a pure risk that an insurer would generally be willing to cover?
- In insurance terminology, the actual cause of a loss, such as fire, illness, or death, is called a:
Last reviewed: · editorial process