If an insurance policy is unclear or ambiguous, in whose favor does the policy respond?

• A. The insured
• B. The insurer
• C. The agent
• D. Both parties

Answer: (A)

When policy language is unclear, the insured is favored. In Florida, ambiguities are interpreted against the insurer who drafted the language, applying the contra proferentem principle and the reasonable expectations doctrine. Since the insurer writes the contract, any vague term is read in a way that benefits coverage for the insured. So, if the wording doesn’t clearly spell out a term or condition, the policy should respond in the insured’s favor. The agent isn’t a party to the contract, and the neutral outcome favors the insured when ambiguity exists.