The process of construing and interpreting insurance policies has been described as one that “draws us deep into the catacombs of insurance policy English, a dimly lit underworld where many have lost their way.” Ins. Co. of North America v. Home & Auto Ins., 256 Ill.App.3d 801 (1993). Indeed, the task of determining whether coverage is provided or excluded under a particular policy often consists of a long and tortuous journey, which frequently leads to nowhere but confusion. Nevertheless, there are well-recognized signs and guideposts that can help to illuminate the path toward understanding.
The analysis of questions involving particular insurance policy language must begin with an understanding of the general rules of policy construction and interpretation. Since an insurance policy is a form of a contract, “the terms and conditions of any insurance policy must be construed in the same manner as any other contract” (Coppotelli v. Ins. Co. of North America, 484 F.Supp. 1327 (E.D.N.Y. 1980), aff’d in part, rev’d in part, 631 F.2d 146 (2d Cir. 1980). See also, Matter of Covert, 97 NY2d 68, 76 (2001).
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