In terms of insurance, what is a primary factor associated with substandard risks?

Substandard risks in insurance are typically associated with individuals who present a higher likelihood of making claims compared to the average insured population. A history of frequent claims is a primary indicator of substandard risk, as it demonstrates an individual's past behavior and potential future risk profile. Insurance companies assess applicants based on their claims history, and if an individual has consistently filed claims, it signals to the insurer that they are more likely to require benefits again in the future.

In contrast, characteristics like exclusively positive health indicators, high physical fitness level, or low emotional stress levels would suggest a lower risk of claims. Such factors would generally describe individuals who are considered standard or preferred risks rather than substandard. Thus, the history of frequent claims serves as a concrete factor that identifies an individual as a substandard risk in the context of insurance.