What constitutes a "material misrepresentation" on an insurance application?

A "material misrepresentation" on an insurance application refers to providing false information that would influence the insurer's decision-making during the underwriting process. This means that if an applicant knowingly submits incorrect details—such as misrepresenting their health status, omitting significant prior claims, or exaggerating risk factors—this can lead to the insurer assessing the risk incorrectly. Since underwriting relies heavily on the accuracy of information to determine coverage eligibility, premiums, and conditions, such misrepresentations can significantly alter the insurer's evaluation and decision.

When an applicant provides accurate information, it does not meet the definition of a misrepresentation, as it supports the insurer's ability to make informed decisions. Offering additional coverage options also does not constitute a misrepresentation; it merely involves the proactivity of the applicant in exploring available choices. Similarly, disclosing all previous claims is critical to transparency and supports fair underwriting, negating the idea that this could lead to a misrepresentation scenario. Thus, only providing false information that could alter the insurer's assessment qualifies as a material misrepresentation.