What Is Umbrella Insurance and How Do I Know if I Need It?

Standard auto, home or renters insurance policies can cover many common financial risks, but there are situations where the costs of an accident or lawsuit go beyond those limits. Umbrella insurance is designed to extend liability coverage, offering an extra layer of financial support when your primary policy reaches its maximum.

How Umbrella Insurance Works 

Umbrella insurance does not replace your existing policies; it adds additional liability coverage on top of them. For example, if you are found responsible for an accident that causes injuries or significant property damage, your auto or homeowners policy would pay up to its limit. If costs go beyond that amount, umbrella insurance may help cover the remaining balance up to the umbrella policy’s limit.

This extended coverage can also apply to legal defense fees, which can become expensive during lengthy lawsuits.

Situations Where It May Be Useful

Umbrella insurance is often considered by people who have greater liability exposure. This could include owning rental properties, having a swimming pool or driving frequently. It can also be useful if you host gatherings at your home or participate in community activities that increase the chance of liability claims.

Even if you don’t have significant assets, lawsuits can still impact future earnings, making extra coverage worth considering.

Deciding If It’s Right for You

Determining whether you need umbrella insurance comes down to evaluating your lifestyle and risk factors.

Think about the value of your assets, your exposure to potential lawsuits and whether the limits of your current policies would be enough in a severe incident. For many, umbrella insurance offers reassurance that they have coverage beyond the basics.

Learn More

Umbrella insurance may not be necessary for everyone, but it can play an important role in certain situations. Contact us at our office today to explore umbrella insurance options with Fitzwilliam Insurance Services LLC.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.