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Simple English definitions for legal terms
damn-fool doctrine
Read a random definition: earldom
A quick definition of damn-fool doctrine:
The damn-fool doctrine is a principle in insurance that allows an insurer to deny coverage when the insured engages in behavior that is so foolish that the insurer should not be responsible for the resulting loss. This means that if someone does something really stupid and gets hurt, their insurance company might not pay for their medical bills or other damages. However, this principle is not always applied and other factors may influence a court's decision. The term "damnification" refers to something that causes damage, while "damnify" means to cause loss or damage to someone or something.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: The principle that an insurance company can deny coverage if the insured engages in behavior that is so foolish that the insurer should not be responsible for the resulting loss.
For example, if someone intentionally sets fire to their own property, the insurance company may deny coverage because the insured's actions were so foolish that they should not be responsible for the resulting damage.
This principle is not always a perfect predictor of judicial decisions, but it can be effective in understanding outcomes. If the insured has enough resources to compensate for the damage caused by their foolish actions, the "damn-fool doctrine" may be used to deny coverage.
Damnification: Something that causes damage.
Damnify: To cause loss or damage to; to injure.