Insurance generally refers to a legally enforceable contract—known as an insurance policy—in which an insurance company (the insurer) agrees to (1) defend the person or entity who purchased the policy (the insured) against future claims or lawsuits; and (2) pay for losses (usually financial) that are covered under the written terms of the insurance policy.

These two primary legal obligations of an insurer under a liability insurance policy are known as the duty to defend and the duty to indemnify.

Insurance may be purchased to cover a wide range of future claims or losses—ranging from health insurance to pay future medical expenses, to commercial general liability (CGL) to cover future claims and losses incurred by a business.

In Ohio, insurance is regulated by state statutes and administrative codes, which establish the legal framework for the operation of insurance companies and the enforcement of insurance policies. The Ohio Department of Insurance oversees the insurance industry, ensuring compliance with laws and protecting consumers. The duty to defend and the duty to indemnify are fundamental obligations of an insurer under a liability insurance policy. The duty to defend requires the insurer to provide legal defense to the insured against claims or lawsuits that fall within the scope of the policy coverage. The duty to indemnify means the insurer must pay for the losses or damages covered by the policy, up to the policy limits. Insurance policies in Ohio can cover various risks, including health insurance for medical expenses and commercial general liability (CGL) insurance for business-related claims and losses. It's important for policyholders to understand the specific terms and coverage limits of their insurance policies, as these dictate the extent of the insurer's duties. Policyholders should consult with an attorney for guidance on insurance matters, particularly when a claim arises or if there is a dispute regarding coverage.