DSM Insurance Guy Blog

Understanding Umbrella Insurance - What is it for?

Written by Dallas Downey. CLCS | April 30, 2024 at 6:22 PM

Picture this: You're heading to work. You're merging on the freeway, and you don't notice the $250,000 Ferrari in your blind spot. You run right into the side of it, causing $150,000 worth of damage. But, you have insurance, and that'll pay for the damage you did - right? 
Well, maybe not... You only have $100,000 in property damage coverage... This is where umbrella insurance comes in. 

Umbrella insurance is a supplementary liability policy that provides additional coverage beyond what your standard insurance policies offer. 
It's crucial to find the best umbrella insurance in Des Moines, and in this article, Dallas with DSMIG will explain everything you need to know about it. From the basics of umbrella insurance to the benefits and how to choose the right policy, we've got you covered.

Exploring Umbrella Insurance: What You Need to Know

If you're looking for extra protection beyond your existing insurance policies, an umbrella policy is exactly what you're looking for. This policy is a type of excess liability insurance that can provide additional personal liability coverage and asset protection. Before purchasing an umbrella policy, it's important to understand the key concepts involved.
What is excess liability insurance?
Excess liability insurance offers supplementary liability coverage beyond the limits of your underlying insurance policies. This policy is designed to protect you from financial losses in case you're found liable for someone else's injury or property damage.
Key Points to Remember:
  • An umbrella policy provides additional personal liability coverage and asset protection.
  • Excess liability insurance is a type of umbrella policy that offers supplementary liability coverage beyond the limits of your underlying insurance policies.
  • The policy is designed to protect you from financial losses in case you're found liable for someone else's injury or property damage.
What is personal liability coverage?
Personal liability coverage also provides protection against liability claims made against you for bodily injury or property damage. This coverage is typically included in your homeowners and auto insurance policies, but the limits may not be enough to cover a catastrophic event. That's where an umbrella policy comes in.

  • An umbrella policy can provide additional coverage beyond the limits of your homeowners and auto insurance policies.
  • The policy can cover legal fees, medical expenses, and other costs associated with a liability claim.
  • Having an umbrella policy can help protect your assets and provide peace of mind.

Understanding liability limits

Liability limits refer to the maximum amount your insurance policy will pay out in the event of a claim. The limits on your underlying insurance policies, such as homeowners and auto insurance, may not be enough to cover a catastrophic event. For example, if you're found liable for a car accident and the damages exceed your auto insurance limits, you could be held responsible for the remaining amount. An umbrella policy can provide additional coverage beyond these limits.
Key Takeaways:

  • Personal liability coverage is a type of insurance that provides protection against liability claims made against you for bodily injury or property damage.
  • An umbrella policy can provide additional coverage beyond the limits of your underlying insurance policies.
  • Liability limits refer to the maximum amount your insurance policy will pay out in the event of a claim.

Benefits of Umbrella Insurance in Des Moines

If you're a resident of Des Moines, having the best umbrella insurance policy is vital to protect yourself from large liability claims. Umbrella insurance offers additional liability coverage beyond what your home or auto insurance provides, safeguarding you from lawsuits and financial burdens. Having an umbrella policy can give you peace of mind, knowing that you are fully covered in case of an unfortunate event. Protect yourself and your assets by consulting with a reliable Des Moines insurance agent to choose the best umbrella insurance coverage.

How to Choose the Right Umbrella Insurance Policy

If you're considering an umbrella insurance policy, it's important to choose the right one to fit your needs. Working with a licensed Des Moines insurance agency like DSMIG can help ensure that you understand all the options and can select the best coverage for your situation. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a liability umbrella policy:
Make sure that the policy you choose provides adequate coverage for all of your assets and potential risks.
Consider what types of coverage you need. For example, umbrella insurance can provide additional coverage for personal liability, uninsured motorists, and rental properties.
Understand how much you will need to pay out of pocket before your policy kicks in.
Determine the cost of the policy and how it fits into your budget. Qualifying for discounts may reduce your costs.
It's important to keep in mind that umbrella insurance is a supplementary policy to your existing coverage, so the specifics of your primary policies will affect the umbrella policy you choose.
Ultimately, the right umbrella insurance policy will provide you with the peace of mind that you're protected in unexpected situations.

Understanding Umbrella Insurance Claims and Coverage

When it comes to umbrella insurance, it's essential to understand the claims process and the coverage it offers.
If you are involved in an accident where you are held liable for damages, your primary insurance policy will cover a specific amount of the damages. However, if the damages exceed your policy's limits, your umbrella insurance policy will kick in to cover that excess amount.
Umbrella insurance provides extended coverage beyond what your primary policy covers. It can also offer asset protection in unexpected incidents that may result in financial losses.
​To file a claim, you will need to provide proof of the damages, the amount you are requesting, and any other necessary documents. Your insurance provider may investigate the claim to determine its validity and assess the damages before approving the claim.
It's essential to keep in mind that umbrella insurance doesn't cover everything. There are exclusions and limitations to what it covers, so be sure to read your policy and understand its terms and conditions before filing a claim.
Conclusion
Umbrella insurance is a valuable and necessary coverage that provides additional protection for unexpected incidents. As a resident of the Des Moines Metro, it is important to find the best umbrella insurance policy that suits your needs and provides adequate coverage.
Don't hesitate to consult with Dallas at DSMIG to navigate the complexities of choosing the right umbrella policy. Understanding liability limits, extended coverage, and asset protection are crucial in ensuring that you and your assets are safeguarded.
By exploring your options and securing the best umbrella insurance coverage, you can enjoy peace of mind and protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances. We hope this article has provided you with a better understanding of umbrella insurance and its benefits for Des Moines residents.

​Umbrella Insurance FAQs

Q: What is the best umbrella insurance in Des Moines?
A: The best umbrella insurance in Des Moines depends on your individual needs and circumstances. Consult with DSMIG to find the most suitable policy.

Q: What are liability limits?
A: Liability limits refer to the maximum amount an insurance policy will pay out in the event of a covered claim. It's crucial to understand liability limits when selecting an umbrella insurance policy.

Q: What is a supplementary liability policy?
A: A supplementary liability policy, like umbrella insurance, provides additional coverage beyond what is offered in a primary insurance policy. It's important to have adequate insurance coverage to protect assets in unexpected incidents.

Q: Does umbrella insurance only cover personal liability?
A: No, umbrella insurance can provide coverage for personal liability and other types of liability, such as auto liability and property damage liability. It's important to understand the types of insurance coverage included in your umbrella policy.

Q: Is umbrella insurance necessary if I have a high net worth?
A: Yes, even individuals with high net worth can face unexpected situations that lead to significant liability. Umbrella insurance can provide additional protection beyond what is covered in primary insurance policies.