As summer approaches, it could mean more activity for you and your family, from road trips and vacations to graduation parties and warm days at the pool.

However, accidents can happen, and sometimes they may lead to expensive lawsuits or liability claims. That’s where umbrella insurance comes in.

Umbrella insurance is like a safety net. It adds an extra layer of protection above your existing home and auto insurance policies. That means if a claim goes over your policy limits, you’re still covered.

Let’s say someone is injured on your property and the costs related to the incident go beyond what your homeowners insurance will cover. Or maybe your child accidentally causes damage to someone else’s property. Umbrella insurance can help cover those larger expenses so you’re not paying out of pocket.

Here Are Some Common Umbrella Insurance Claims:   

Distracted driving–Texting while driving is a leading cause of accidents. Driving risks of all types tend to be higher when there is an inexperienced driver on the auto policy.

Slip and fall–Property owners can be held responsible when someone is injured due to unsafe conditions, such as a wet floor, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, ice, or other hazards. 

Pools and recreational features–Items that offer the most fun, such as pools, trampolines, and playsets, often carry high risk of injury.

Social media defamation–If a family member posts something negative online that another party claims is defamatory and a lawsuit follows, you could face legal defense costs and potential damages. Umbrella insurance may help cover defense fees and settlements.

You don’t need to be a millionaire to be sued like one. An umbrella policy provides peace of mind, knowing that your savings, home, and future earnings are protected—even in situations you might never expect.

Umbrella insurance can be affordable, depending on your risk profile and coverage needs. If you want to learn more about how umbrella insurance can fit into your overall protection plan, we’re here to help. Talk to a Westwood agent to review your potential risks and make sure you are protected.  

Please Note: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not represent any specific insurance policy and does not modify any provisions, limitations, or exclusions of any current policy.