Definition of "Respondeat superior"

Latin for "Let the superior reply." That is, an employer is liable for the torts of employees that result from their employment. For example, an insurance company (the master) acts through its agent (servant); because of this master-servant relationship, any wrongs the agent commits are deemed to have been committed by the insurance company, which must accept responsibility.

image of a real estate dictionary page

Have a question or comment?

We're here to help.

*** Your email address will remain confidential.
 

 

Popular Insurance Terms

Model state law providing guidelines by regulators for valuation of securities on the books of insurance companies. The act has two sections: one for valuation of fixed rate bonds and debt ...

System of charges to an insured that fluctuates according to the loss experience of that insured. This is a form of experience rating. ...

Possibility of loss associated with water transportation, including hull damage or destruction, cargo damage or destruction, liability to others for bodily injury, and property damage or ...

Individual who represents a ceding insurance company in placing its business with a re insurer. ...

Death caused by a person without legal justification. Wrongful death may be the result of negligence, such as when a drunken driver hits and kills someone; or it may be intentional, as when ...

System for calculating the relationship between a pension plan's present cost and its present future benefits. This relationship shows the extent to which a pension plan's benefits are ...

Commercial liability insurance form providing coverage for an insured business in the event of a pollution liability suit. The insurance provides claims made basis liability coverage. ...

Choice among the following options made by retiree prior to retirement concerning the distribution of benefits: option since all income payments cease upon the death of the retiree. Monthly ...

Coverage in the event of property damage or destruction resulting from wrongful installation of equipment. ...

Popular Insurance Questions