What is Protection and Indemnity (P&I) Insurance?

Protection and Indemnity (P&I) Insurance is the liability insurance for practically all maritime liability risks associated with the operation of a vessel, other than that covered under a workers compensation policy and under the collision clause in a hull policy. There is no standard P&I form with the specific terms and conditions for each insured tailored by underwriters based on the nature of the risk and the character and amount of insurance desired by the insured. Additionally note that since the P&I policy is essentially a contract of indemnity, the insurer is not obligated to pay unless the insured must actually pay the claim.