In insurance terms, an occurrence refers to:

In the context of insurance terminology, an occurrence is defined as an event that takes place suddenly and is often associated with a specific incident causing damage or injury. This definition is crucial because it helps to clarify what incidents are covered under various insurance policies, particularly in liability insurance.

Understanding occurrences as sudden events allows insurers to assess risks and assign premiums accordingly. For example, if a storm damages property in one specific instance, it is categorized as an occurrence and can lead to a claim under property insurance. This is contrasted with ongoing or habitual actions, which may not qualify as occurrences in the way insurers determine coverage.

The focus on sudden events emphasizes the need for timely reporting of incidents to ensure claims are processed under the correct terms of a policy. It's also significant because it differentiates between one-time unexpected events and more gradual issues, such as wear and tear or maintenance failures, which might not be covered in the same way.

Therefore, identifying an occurrence as a sudden event is essential for understanding coverage limits and the claim process within insurance frameworks.