HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus.

HMO health maintenance organization.

hazard Any factor that creates or increases the chance of loss.

A physical hazard is created by the condition, occupancy or use of the property itself. Examples include faulty brakes increasing the chance of collision and faulty electrical wiring increasing the chance of fire.

A moral hazard is a subjective characteristic of the insured that increases the chance of loss. Examples include arranging an accident to collect the insurance and inflating the amount of a claim.

A morale hazard is carelessness or indifference to a loss because of the existence of insurance. Leaving the car keys in an unlocked car is such an example.

health insurance This term has become accepted by the industry for the branch which includes all types of loss of time and medical expense insurance. It is also known as accident and health insurance, sickness and accident insurance, etc.

hired car An automobile of which the exclusive use and control has been temporarily given to another for a consideration. This should be distinguished from contract hauling, since in the latter case the owner retains control of the movements of the vehicle and simply agrees to furnish transportation.

hold-harmless agreement An agreement by which one party assumes the liability of another. Hold-harmless agreements are often found in leases; the lessee (tenant) agreeing to assume the lessor's (landlord's) liability if members of the public are injured through some faulty condition in the premises occupied by the lessee.

hospital benefits Additional benefits payable under an accident, health or disability policy in case the insured is confined to a hospital.