What does the term "sliding" refer to in insurance practices?

The term "sliding" in insurance practices specifically refers to the act of inducing a client to purchase additional insurance coverages without their knowledge or consent. This often occurs when an agent adds extra products or features to a policy, falsely implying that the additional coverage is necessary or that it is already included in the initial policy. Sliding is considered an unethical practice as it can lead clients to pay for unnecessary coverage that they did not agree to or fully understand.

The clarity of this definition is essential for understanding consumer protection laws and the ethical obligations of insurance agents. In many states, including Connecticut, such practices can lead to disciplinary actions against agents and may violate various regulations designed to protect consumers in the insurance marketplace. Recognizing sliding is vital for both consumers and industry professionals to ensure that all parties engage in fair and transparent transactions.