In the context of insurance, what does the term "voluntary" refer to?

The term "voluntary" in the context of insurance signifies coverage that is chosen by the insured, rather than being mandated by law. This means that individuals have the discretion to decide whether or not to purchase this type of insurance based on their personal needs, risk tolerance, and financial circumstances.

For instance, while certain types of insurance, such as auto liability coverage, may be required by law to operate a vehicle legally, optional coverages—like comprehensive car insurance, life insurance, or additional health benefits—are considered voluntary as individuals choose whether to include them in their insurance portfolio. The emphasis on personal choice is what distinguishes voluntary coverage from mandatory or enforced options.