Umbrella insurance gives you added liability protection above and beyond the limits on your homeowners, auto, and specialty vehicle insurance policies. With an umbrella policy, you can purchase an additional $1 to $5 million in liability protection.
The standard liability in a homeowners or auto policy is often not enough to protect the policy holders assets in case of a lawsuit. Liability insurance covers what you may be legally obligated to pay because of bodily injury or property damage you caused to another person. This includes their expenses, such as medical bills and rehabilitative therapy.
How much umbrella coverage do I need?
Most experts recommend buying enough liability insurance to protect your assets in case you are sued. For example, if you own property or have investments and savings that are worth more than the liability limits in your homeowners and auto policies, purchasing an umbrella policy for at least that amount can provide an extra safety net.
Other things to consider which may increase your liability:
- Backyard items, such as a trampoline or pool.
- Serving alcohol to guests. In many states, you could be held legally responsible for the actions of anyone who drinks alcohol in your home and then has an accident.
- Teenage drivers, who have a higher accident risk.
Umbrella liability insurance is often inexpensive, especially compared to the added coverage you could gain. So the added protection of an umbrella liability policy is coverage to seriously consider.
