OGC Opinion No. 06-07-05

The Office of General Counsel issued the following opinion on July 10, 2006 representing the position of the New York State Insurance Department.

RE: "Significant Other"

Question:

1. Does the New York Insurance Law have a definition for the term "significant other" in relation to personal or commercial motor vehicle insurance?

2. Does any insurance company in New York have a definition for the term "significant other" in its motor vehicle insurance forms?

Conclusion:

1. No. There is no definition in the New York Insurance Law of "significant other."

2. The Insurance Service Organization ("ISO") policy form used by most motor vehicle insurers and the other policy forms used by the largest motor vehicle insurers in New York do not define or use the term "significant other;" nor is the Department aware of such use in any other motor vehicle policy forms filed with and approved by the Superintendent.

Facts:

No facts were provided; yours is a general inquiry.

Analysis:

There is no Insurance Law statute or regulation in New York defining the term "significant other." Although some courts have used the term, it has not been used in the context of insurance and has no particular definition or meaning attached in Insurance Law. The Insurance Service Organization ("ISO") policy form used by most motor vehicle insurers and the other policy forms used by the largest motor vehicle insurers in New York do not define or use the term "significant other;" nor is the Department aware of such use in any other motor vehicle policy forms filed with and approved by the Superintendent.

For further information you may contact Principal Attorney Paul A. Zuckerman at the New York City Office.