What is the expected profit for a car rental insurance company?

In summary, the given conversation discusses the calculation of expected value for a random variable X with a probability mass function and the expected profit for an insurance company offering car rental insurance. The expected value for X is found by multiplying each possible value by its corresponding probability and adding them together. The expected profit for the insurance company can be calculated by subtracting the expected value from the premium charged for the policy.
  • #1
Mark53
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Homework Statement


(4) (a) Let X be a random variable defined by the probability mass function P(X = x). The possible values X can take (denoted x) and the probability of those values occurring P(X = x) can be seen below

x 0 1000 2000 5000
P(X = x) 0.94 0.03 0.02 0.01

Find E(X).

(b) An insurance company offers extra insurance for car rentals to cover incidental damage, such as windscreens and tyres not covered by the primary insurance, and also the excess charged by the primary insurance in case of an accident. Let X be the amount paid out by the company on a randomly chosen policy of duration 10 days and suppose X follows the probability distribution in (a) above. If the premium charged for the policy is $180.00, what is the expected profit to the company for a single policy with a duration of 10 days?

The Attempt at a Solution



a) E(x)=1000x0.003+2000x0.003+5000x0.01
E(x)=120

b)
would this just be

180-120=$60

I am unsure about this part
 
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  • #2
Mark53 said:
2000x0.003
Check that again.
Mark53 said:
would this just be
It would be, given the right number from a).
 
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  • #3
haruspex said:
Check that again.

It would be, given the right number from a).
Thanks
 

1. What is probability insurance and how does it work?

Probability insurance is a type of insurance that covers the risk of an uncertain event occurring. This could include events such as natural disasters, accidents, or health problems. The insurance company calculates the likelihood of the event happening and charges a premium based on that probability. In the case that the event does occur, the insurance company pays out a predetermined amount to the policyholder.

2. How is probability calculated in insurance?

Insurance companies use historical data and statistical models to calculate the probability of certain events occurring. They also take into account factors such as location, age, and health status of the policyholder to determine the likelihood of a claim being made. Actuaries, who are experts in risk assessment, play a key role in calculating probabilities for insurance companies.

3. What factors affect the cost of probability insurance?

The cost of probability insurance is influenced by various factors, including the type of event being insured against, the likelihood of that event occurring, the amount of coverage needed, and the individual risk profile of the policyholder. Other factors such as inflation and market conditions may also impact the cost of insurance.

4. What are the advantages of probability insurance?

The main advantage of probability insurance is that it provides protection against unexpected events and helps mitigate financial risk. It allows individuals and businesses to transfer the risk of a potential loss to the insurance company, providing peace of mind and financial stability. Probability insurance also promotes responsible risk-taking and can help stimulate economic growth.

5. Are there any limitations to probability insurance?

Like any type of insurance, probability insurance has its limitations. It typically does not cover events that are deemed to be within the control of the policyholder, such as intentional damage or illegal activities. Additionally, there may be exclusions for certain high-risk events or conditions. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of a probability insurance policy before purchasing to understand any limitations or exclusions.

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