Most families carefully choose their car and home insurance, then never think about what happens if a single accident costs more than those policies will pay. That's exactly the gap a personal umbrella policy is designed to fill, and it's often one of the best values in insurance.
What is umbrella insurance?
A personal umbrella policy adds extra liability protection, usually starting at $1 million, on top of your auto, homeowners, renters, boat and motorcycle policies. When a covered claim exceeds the liability limit on one of those policies, the umbrella picks up where it leaves off.
Why it matters
Serious accidents can be expensive. A multi-car crash with injuries, a guest badly hurt at your home or a dog bite can lead to medical bills and legal judgments that exceed typical auto and home liability limits. When that happens, your savings, home equity and even future wages can be at risk.
Who should consider an umbrella policy?
- Homeowners with growing equity, savings or retirement accounts
- Families with teen drivers
- Homes with a pool, trampoline or dog
- Landlords with one or more rental properties
- Boat, RV and motorcycle owners
- Anyone who coaches, volunteers or hosts frequently
What does it cost?
Umbrella insurance is often surprisingly affordable for the amount of protection it provides, because it only pays after your other policies are exhausted. The exact price depends on how many homes, vehicles and drivers you have. Most carriers require you to carry certain minimum liability limits on your auto and home policies first.
How much coverage should you get?
A good starting point is enough coverage to protect your net worth and future income. Many families choose $1 million; others with more assets choose $2 million or more. We'll help you think it through.
Add an umbrella with your next review
Trailmark Insurance Advisors in Denton can quote umbrella insurance alongside your auto and home policies, and make sure your underlying limits line up. Request a free quote or call (214) 531-7932.
Eric Glenn is the founder of Trailmark Insurance Advisors, an independent, Texas-owned agency at 3616 Duchess Dr, Ste. 120 in Denton, and a licensed Texas property and casualty agent. He has been helping North Texans save money on insurance since 2020 and compares coverage from Progressive, Travelers, Liberty Mutual, The Hartford and National General. Read Eric's story. Reach him at (214) 531-7932 or eric@texastrailmark.com.
This article is general information, not legal advice or a guarantee of coverage. Coverage depends on your specific policy, carrier and underwriting.
