In Ohio, it is illegal to drive any motor vehicle without car insurance, and it is illegal for a vehicle owner to allow anyone else to drive his or her motor vehicle without car insurance.

WHEN IT RAINS IN OHIO, IT OFTEN POURS… (GOT UMBRELLA INSURANCE?)
Especially when it comes to unexpected accidents or claims…

WHAT IS UMBRELLA INSURANCE?
You never know when it might rain, especially in Ohio. So, just like the name implies, this type of policy acts like an umbrella, providing protection against a wide range of potential financial dangers and unforeseeable mishaps.

Umbrella insurance does not cover:

Your own medical expenses
Losses to your property
However, what exactly is covered by your umbrella policy depends on how you decide to set it up. In most cases, umbrella insurance protects you from:

• Injuries you cause in a car accident
• Injuries someone suffers on your property
• Property damage you cause in an accident
• Property damage your pet causes
• Property damage a dependent or child causes
• Attorney fees and other legal costs

Yes, your existing insurance may protect you to an extent, but an umbrella policy goes much further for less cost than upping the limits on your existing policy because it covers different types of risks. Umbrella insurance is also portable, in most cases, so it can follow you when and wherever you travel.

Since the terms of umbrella insurance policies will vary, depending on insurance companies and your own personal needs, a qualified independent insurance agent from our firm – Kim, Kristy or Sam -- is the best person to call or email about the benefits, restrictions and coverage that is right for you and your specific situation.

AREN’T PEOPLE WITH A LOT OF ASSETS THE ONLY ONES WHO NEED UMBRELLA INSURANCE?
Actually, anyone with a job, who expects to keep the income they earn, could benefit from having an umbrella insurance policy.

What would happen, for example, if someone made a delivery to your house – whether you live in Cleveland, Columbus or Cincinnati, Ohio --  slipped on a sidewalk recently wet by your sprinkler system, and suffered severe head injuries from the fall. They will sue you, of course.

Your homeowners insurance kicks in and pays up to its maximum limits. But the jury finds that you are responsible for an extra $500,000 over your homeowner’s limits.

Ask yourself: How long would it take you to pay that off with your weekly paycheck?

Umbrella insurance covers the amount that exceeds your homeowners coverage, usually up to $5 million, sparing you from a financial nightmare, along with paying the attorney to help you survive it.

ARE UMBRELLA POLICIES EXPENSIVE?
Relative to the amount of protection you get, umbrella insurance is highly affordable. Especially since it’s unlikely you will ever have to make a claim against it. So, your specific cost will be determined by:

• The amount of coverage you purchase
• Your insurance carrier’s provisions
• Your risk profile and driving record

You may save even more money by purchasing umbrella insurance from the same carrier who provides your home and/or auto insurance. Give our agents a call or email to check with us to make sure.

Tell me again why I need Umbrella Insurance?

A long time ago, you set some goals, made a plan, worked hard and ’arrived’ at your version of the American Dream. As you did, you accumulated possessions and assets. Not to brag, but let’s say you’ve been successful enough to make you and your loved ones comfortable.

You are rightly proud of these accomplishments. In fact, you have protected them with the best insurance you could.

Now, you need extra protection, an umbrella insurance policy. A policy that will cover you above and beyond what any single policy might cover.

For example: What are your limits on your auto and home liability policies: $300,000 to $500,000?

Okay, you say, the insurance will cover it. But what if the amount is over the policy limits? (That happens, especially if you have nice things.)

Your standard home or auto policy is likely not going to be enough to cover what the plaintiff is asking for.

How will you pay the judgment? How will you even defend yourself in such a lawsuit? Can you actually lose all you have strived for?

You bet you can. Not only can you lose what you worked for, you can lose part of your wages for the rest of your working life. (Most people don’t know this.)

WHY WE ARE DIFFERENT
Many insurance products offer the same coverage and pricing, but insurance providers vary greatly when it comes to structuring a policy tailored to you – to protect your assets and your lifestyle. Our experienced agents – Kim, Kristy and Sam – have a combined 54 years serving Ohians’ insurance needs.

Reach out today for a complimentary consultation.

 

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