D
“Dangerous Dogs Act 1991” – legislation that requires owners of specified breeds that are considered to be dangerous such as pit bull terrier and pit bull terrier types etc. to obtain and carry a certificate of exemption in order to keep their dogs. Breaches of the Act may lead to criminal and, where injury has occurred, civil action against the owner. The Act also makes it an offence to allow any dog to be dangerously out of control in public or a private place where it is not permitted to be.
“Data Protection Act 1998”- prevents unauthorised or inappropriate use of ‘personal data’ held electronically or manually. Individuals (‘data subjects’) are allowed access to information held about them and given redress if the Act is contravened. Organisations (‘data controllers’) must notify the Information Commissioner about the type of data held by it and how it is used. They must follow eight data protection principles.
“Deductible” - a specific amount that is deducted from a claims settlement by the insurer - claims below the deductible are eliminated. A deductible works in the same way as an excess.
“Defective Premises Act 1972”- Legislation that places an obligation on builders and developers to build dwellings ‘fit for human habitation’. The duty is owed to all persons who acquire an interest in the dwelling for six years from when the work is completed or remedied. It also makes vendors and lessors liable for negligent work on the property carried out before the sale of a property and ‘repairing’ landlords liable for defects of which they know or ought to have known about.
“Direct Sources of Business” - Insurance business where no intermediary is involved
“Domestic employees” - employees are employed in a household rather than a business where compulsory employers’ liability insurance does not apply.
“Driving of other cars” (DOC) - a clause in a motor insurance policy that permits the insured to drive vehicles not belonging to him and not hired to him under a hire purchase agreement.
“Dual Insurance” - Dual insurance arises when there are two policies in force that are covering the same risks. A policyholder is often unaware that there are two polices running. Upon discovery each insurer will usually refund 50% of the premium paid.