The Complete Guide to Understanding Umbrella Insurance
Umbrella insurance provides extra liability coverage to protect your assets in unexpected events. This blog will explain everything about umbrella policies and who needs extra protection.
What Exactly is Umbrella Insurance?
An umbrella insurance policy provides supplemental liability coverage above and beyond your auto, homeowners, or other policies.
- Umbrella coverage kicks in when the limits of your underlying policies are reached in a liability event
- Provides extra protection between $1 million to $5 million or more
- It is ideal for high net-worth individuals, homeowners, or anyone wanting extra peace of mind
For example, if you cause an accident that results in $500k in damages but your auto coverage limit is $250k, your umbrella policy would cover the remaining $250k, so your assets are not at risk.
Who Needs Umbrella Insurance Coverage?
While valuable for many, umbrella policies are especially important for:
- Homeowners - Extra protection if someone gets injured on your property
- High Net Worth Families - Shield assets like investments, retirement savings, and real estate
- Teen Drivers - Additional coverage in case of accident with injuries/damages above auto policy
- Boat Owners - Supplements boat insurance liability coverage
- Domestic Employees - Covers nannies, caregivers, and other household staff injuries
One major liability event could significantly impact your family's financial security without umbrella insurance.
How Umbrella Insurance Works When You Need It
Umbrella coverage kicks in after the limits of your other liability policies are reached. For example:
- You cause an accident with $500k in damages
- Your auto liability limit is $250k, so that policy pays out
- Your $1 million umbrella policy would then cover the remaining $250k
When getting an umbrella policy, select the extra limit amount you want. Most require $250k-$500k minimums on other policies to qualify.
Why Umbrella Coverage is Critical Today
Today's world is increasingly litigious - situations once leading to handshakes can now end in lawsuits. Key reasons every household should consider an umbrella policy:
- Protect your assets - A single liability event could put your assets at risk without extra coverage
- Peace of mind - Know you are covered for life's unexpected events
- Affordable - Umbrella premiums start at a few hundred dollars per year
- Customizable Limits - Policies available from $1 million up to $5 or even $10 million
Consult with an Agent Today
As you review your insurance protection, consider potential coverage gaps and risks your assets face. An umbrella policy delivers vital defense to preserve what you have worked hard for. Consult with an insurance agent to discuss umbrella coverage options customized for your assets and exposure to risk. This provides essential extra protection for life's unexpected events.