Umbrella

Umbrella Insurance in Florida

Sometimes, life throws more at you than your standard insurance can handle.

That’s where umbrella insurance steps in by providing an extra layer of protection when your auto, home, or other policies hit their limit. In Florida, where high-value homes, young drivers, and storm-related claims are all part of the picture, umbrella coverage isn’t just for the wealthy, it’s smart planning for anyone with assets to protect.

What Is Umbrella Insurance?

Think of umbrella insurance as backup coverage for big claims and lawsuits that go beyond the limits of your existing policies. It kicks in after your auto, homeowners, or boat insurance has paid out and can cover things those policies don’t.

It’s one of the most affordable ways to protect your finances, especially in Florida, where:

• Personal injury lawsuits are common
• Medical and legal costs are high
• Auto accidents involving serious injury can lead to six- or seven-figure claims
• Homeowners may be liable for things like pool injuries, dog bites, or falls on the property

What Does Umbrella Insurance Cover?

• Excess Liability Protection
  Covers costs above your auto, home, or renters policy limits including legal fees, settlements, and court judgments. If you're sued for $1 million but your homeowners insurance only covers $300,000, umbrella insurance can cover the rest.
• Personal Injury Coverage
  Protects against lawsuits related to defamation, slander, libel, false arrest, or invasion of privacy which are risks that are increasingly relevant in today’s digital world.
• Worldwide Coverage
  Covers incidents that happen outside the U.S., whether you're traveling abroad or dealing with claims that involve international exposure.
• Coverage for Others in Your Household
  Most umbrella policies extend to your spouse, kids, and other relatives living in your home, especially helpful if you have teen drivers or college students.
• Legal Defense Costs
  Even if you're not found liable, defending yourself in court can be expensive. Umbrella insurance helps pay for attorney fees and court costs, so you’re not stuck footing the bill.

What to Know About Underlying Limits

Before an umbrella policy can step in, your primary insurance policies must meet certain liability limits. These are called underlying limits. This means your auto, home, or rental property insurance must already carry a minimum level of coverage. For example:

• Auto insurance usually needs to have at least $250,000 per person / $500,000 per accident in liability coverage
• Homeowners insurance often requires at least $300,000 in personal liability coverage