In Pennsylvania Life, Accident, and Health Insurance law,concealmentis defined as theintentional withholding of material informationthat should be disclosed to an insurer during the application process. Insurance contracts are based on the principle ofutmost good faith, meaning both parties are expected to provide complete and accurate information.
Concealment occurs when an applicant knowingly fails to disclose facts that would affect the insurer’s underwriting decision, such as medical history, hazardous occupations, or lifestyle risks. Unlike innocent mistakes, concealment involves deliberate omission and can materially affect the insurer’s risk assessment.
The other options are incorrect under Pennsylvania insurance definitions. Twisting involves replacing a policy with another through misrepresentation. Estoppel prevents an insurer from denying coverage due to prior actions or statements. Misrepresentation refers to providing false statements, while concealment specifically involves withholding information.
If concealment is proven, Pennsylvania law allows the insurer to void the policy or deny claims, even after issuance. Therefore, intentionally withholding information that should be provided to an insurer is correctly identified asconcealment.
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