In an insurance policy, who is the insurer obligated to protect?

The insurer is primarily obligated to protect the named insured in an insurance policy. The named insured is the individual or entity specifically identified in the policy documents as having coverage under that policy. This obligation includes providing the agreed-upon coverage benefits, such as payment for covered losses or legal defense in claims against the insured, according to the terms and conditions set forth in the policy.

This relationship is fundamental in insurance, where the contract is designed to provide financial protection to the named insured in various circumstances. The named insured is the direct party to the insurance agreement, making the insurer's duty to protect them — within the context of the coverage provided — a central principle of how insurance operates.

While other individuals or entities, such as unnamed parties or those involved in lawsuits against the named insured, may benefit indirectly from the policy, the contract specifically governs the relationship and responsibilities between the insurer and the named insured. Therefore, the obligation of the insurer to protect the named insured is clear and foundational in insurance principles.