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The Complementary Roles of Mitigation and Insurance in Managing Catastrophic Risks
Author(s) -
Kleindorfer Paul R.,
Kunreuther Howard
Publication year - 1999
Publication title -
risk analysis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.972
H-Index - 130
eISSN - 1539-6924
pISSN - 0272-4332
DOI - 10.1111/j.1539-6924.1999.tb00442.x
Subject(s) - solvency , actuarial science , business , risk management , miami , finance , risk analysis (engineering) , environmental science , market liquidity , soil science
This paper examines the impact that insurance coupled with specific risk mitigation measures (RMMs) could have on reducing losses from hurricanes and earthquakes as well as improving the solvency position of insurers who provide coverage against these hazards. We first explore why relatively fewindividuals adopt cost‐effective RMMs by reporting on the results of empirical studies and controlled laboratory studies. We then investigate the impact that an RMM has on both the expected losses and those from a worst case scenario in two model cities‐Oakland (an earthquake‐prone area) and Miami/Dade County (a hurricane‐prone area) which were constructed respectively with the assistance of two modeling firms. The paper then explores three programs for forging a meaningful public‐private sector partner‐ ship: well‐enforced building codes, insurance premium reductions linked with long‐term loans, and lower deductibles on insurance policies tied to mitigation. We conclude by briefly examining four issues for future research on linking mitigation with insurance.