Umbrella Insurance? What Is It?Are you not really sure what an umbrella policy is? Certainly it doesn't protect you from the rain, right? So, what is it exactly? Well, umbrella insurance is extra liability insurance. It is designed to protect you from major claims and lawsuits and as a result it helps protect your assets and your future. It does this in two ways:
Still a bit hazy on what an umbrella policy covers? Well, let's dig into the details a bit. Umbrella insurance provides coverage for injuries, damage to property, certain lawsuits, and other personal liability situations listed below. "That's all well and good," you're thinking, "but I have auto and homeowners insurance that covers some of these situations." True! But, umbrella insurance insures you above and beyond the limits of those policies and, in addition, it covers some situations that aren't covered by the other types of policies you have.
Here are examples of the types of coverages provided by an umbrella policy and how they protect you:
Bodily Injury Liability – covers the cost of damages to another person's body. Examples include the cost of medical bills and/or liability claims as a result of:
Property Damage Liability – covers the cost of damage or loss to another person's tangible property. Examples include the cost associated with:
Owners of Rental Units – protects against liability that you may face as a landlord. Examples include the cost of liability claims as a result of:
Coverage is also provided should you be sued for:
So, let's look at an example to help you better understand how an umbrella policy would work to protect you. Let's say you cause an auto accident and the cost of the injuries you cause to others is $500,000. Let's further say that the Bodily Injury limit on your auto insurance is $300,000. Your auto policy will cover $300,000 of the injuries. But who will cover the remaining $200,000? Your umbrella policy will. It will cover the amount above the limit set in your auto policy, up to the limit you choose for your umbrella policy. Now, isn't that peace of mind?
So, in the event of a loss, you would first use your home, auto, or boat liability coverage (if they cover the situation), and then the umbrella policy would begin providing coverage. For a relatively modest cost, the GEICO Personal Umbrella Policy provides the extra layer of liability protection that is so vital to protecting your assets, your family, your lifestyle, and your future. That's a lot of protection!
Coverage limits start at $1 million and can go as high as $10 million for qualified applicants. And rates are lower than you may think.
Give us a call at 1-800-841-4915. We're happy to answer any questions you might have. And, we can give you a free quote over the phone. What do you have to lose? When's the last time you got something for free?
Still not sure you need an umbrella policy? Learn more about why you should consider purchasing an umbrella policy and answer some basic questions to help further determine if you should purchase one. Or, just give us a call at 1-800-841-4915. We're here to help you and answer all your questions.
To be eligible for umbrella insurance, you must carry certain required limits of coverage on your homeowners, auto, and boat (if applicable) insurance policies. Give us a call at 1-800-841-4915 and we can go over all of this with you. You don't have to do it alone.
Why should you buy an umbrella policy from GEICO? Low rates, great service, and exceptional financial strength—that’s why!
Umbrella policy rates are lower than you may think. With one quick phone call, you could get the protection and peace of mind that you need. We promise the same great customer service that you expect from your GEICO auto policy. And, due to GEICO’s financial strength, we’ll have the resources to pay your claims. GEICO is a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. and has assets of over $28 billion. We'll be here when you need us.
Please note:
The above is meant as general information and as general policy descriptions to help you understand the different types of coverages. These descriptions do not refer to any specific contract of insurance and they do not modify any definitions expressly stated in any contracts of insurance. We encourage you to speak to your insurance representative and to read your policy contract to fully understand your coverages.
GEICO requires a minimum bodily injury limit of $300,000/$300,000 and a property damage limit of $100,000 on your auto policy to qualify for an umbrella policy. Homeowners/Renters Personal Liability coverage of $300,000 is also required. Contact us to receive a quote for increased auto insurance limits. GEICO Personal Umbrella Insurance is underwritten by Government Employees Insurance Company.
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