GAP THEORY

gap theory.Insurance. The principle that a tortfeasor will be considered underinsured if his or

her liabili-ty-insurance coverage — although legally adequate — is less than the injured party’s

underinsured-motorist coverage. • This principle allows an injured party to invoke

underinsured-motorist coverage. Cf. EXCESS THEORY. [Cases: Insurance 2787.C.J.S.

Insurance § 1657.] [Blacks Law 8th]