A proximate cause term referring to a sequence of events preceding a loss.
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If there is a Direct chain of events (one leading to the other) with no exceptions involved, the insured peril is the Direct and natural cause of the loss and there is liability. But if an excepted peril precedes the operation of the insured peril so that the loss caused by latter is Direct and natural consequence of the excepted peril, there is no liability. Broken chain of events : Where the chain of events is broken, without any excepted perils, and if it is possible to separate the losses, there is liability for losses caused by the insured peril. If the chain is broken by an insured peril, the subsequent peril breaks the chain, liability ceases for subsequent losses only.