What is the priority order if a written policy and a proposal form conflict?

In conflicts between a written insurance policy and a proposal form, the insurance policy document takes priority. This is because the policy is the final agreement between the insurer and the insured, reflecting the agreed-upon terms and conditions after negotiations. The proposal form, which is typically completed by the insured during the application process, serves as a means to provide information used to assess risk and determine premiums but is not the definitive contract itself.

The policy document is legally binding and outlines the coverage details, exclusions, and obligations of both parties. Therefore, in the event of discrepancies, the courts or regulatory bodies would regard the written policy as the authoritative document, establishing the rights and responsibilities of both the insurer and the insured.

Other options may suggest different forms or types of documentation having priority, but these do not align with the established principles of contract law in the insurance context. Hence, the prioritization of the policy document over the proposal form is a fundamental principle in insurance law.