In 1977, defendant issued a group policy of insurance to a law firm. At that time, Barwick was a partner in the law firm and became an insured under the terms of the policy.
Among other coverages, the policy provided life insurance on Barwick in the amount of $50,000. Under the terms of the policy, the amount of life insurance coverage was reduced by one-half when a person reached the age of 65.
Barwick attained the age of 65 on March 19, 1980, but the monthly billings made to the law firm by defendant (which showed Barwick’s correct birthdate) continued to show Barwick’s life insurance coverage as $50,000 and continued to charge the premium for $50,000 of life insurance coverage. The premiums were paid in full by the law firm. Following Barwick’s death on October 12, 1981, at the age of 66, defendant paid to plaintiff (Barwick’s widow) life insurance benefits of $25,000 and sought to refund the premiums previously billed and collected in excess of that due for coverage in the amount of $25,000.
Following defendant’s refusal to pay benefits for the full $50,000, plaintiff filed this action. Plaintiff appeals from the grant of defendant’s motion for summary judgment and the denial of her motion for summary judgment. Held:
Plaintiff contends that defendant by charging and accepting payment of premiums for coverage in the full amount of $50,000 has waived strict compliance with the terms of the policy calling for a reduction of life insurance benefits at age 65. Also, plaintiff argues that due to this waiver, defendant is estopped to insist on the terms and conditions of the policy as to reduced benefits.
“ ‘The doctrines of implied waiver and estoppel, based upon the conduct or action of the insurer, or its agent, are not available to bring within the coverage of a policy risks not covered by its terms, or risks expressly excluded therefrom.’ Ballinger v. C & S Bank,
American Home &c. Ins. Co. v. Harvey,
The trial court erred in granting defendant’s motion for summary judgment and in denying plaintiff’s motion for summary judgment.
Judgment reversed.
