Legal Tips For Drafting A Liability Insurance Policy For Your Business
Legal Tips for Drafting a Liability Insurance Policy for Your Business: So, you’re starting a business – awesome! But have you thought about the what-ifs? Accidents happen, lawsuits happen, and that’s where a solid liability insurance policy comes in. This guide breaks down the essentials, from understanding different types of liability to negotiating the best coverage for your specific needs.
We’ll walk you through the jargon, the fine print, and how to protect your business from potentially devastating financial losses. Get ready to level up your business savvy!
This guide will cover everything from defining different types of business liability (think general, professional, and product liability) and understanding policy language, to negotiating favorable terms with insurance providers and implementing effective risk management strategies. We’ll also delve into the claims process, compliance requirements, and the importance of regularly reviewing and updating your policy to ensure you maintain adequate coverage as your business grows and evolves.
Think of it as your cheat sheet to navigating the sometimes-confusing world of business insurance.
Defining Liability and its Types in Business
Understanding liability is crucial for any business owner. Liability, in simple terms, refers to the legal responsibility you have for your actions or the actions of your employees that cause harm to others. This harm can be physical injury, property damage, or even financial loss. The type and extent of your liability significantly impacts the type of insurance coverage you need.
Failing to adequately address liability can lead to devastating financial consequences.
General Liability
General liability insurance protects your business from financial losses resulting from common accidents or incidents. This includes bodily injury or property damage caused by your business operations, your employees, or even your products (excluding those covered under product liability). For example, a customer slipping and falling in your store or a delivery driver accidentally damaging someone’s property would fall under general liability.
The coverage typically includes medical expenses, legal defense costs, and settlement payments. This is a foundational policy for most businesses, regardless of size or structure. Sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, and corporations all benefit from this coverage. The specific limits and exclusions will vary depending on the policy.
Professional Liability (Errors and Omissions)
Professional liability, also known as errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, protects professionals from claims of negligence or mistakes in their professional services. This is particularly important for businesses offering services like consulting, legal advice, accounting, or medical care. If a client claims that your services caused them financial harm due to an error or omission, E&O insurance will help cover the costs of legal defense and settlements.
This type of coverage is crucial for professionals who provide expert advice and services where mistakes can have significant consequences. All business structures, from sole proprietors to large corporations, employing professionals need to consider this type of insurance.
Product Liability
Product liability insurance protects businesses that manufacture, distribute, or sell products from claims alleging that their products caused harm to consumers. This could involve injury from a defective product, property damage caused by a faulty product, or illness resulting from a contaminated product. A food manufacturer recalling a contaminated product, for instance, would need product liability coverage. This is a critical insurance type for businesses involved in manufacturing or product distribution.
The coverage extends to legal defense costs and settlements arising from product-related claims. The need for this type of insurance is directly related to the type of business and its products. It is essential for manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.
Comparison of Liability Insurance Types, Legal Tips for Drafting a Liability Insurance Policy for Your Business
Type of Liability | Coverage | Typical Exclusions | Common Coverage Limits |
---|---|---|---|
General Liability | Bodily injury, property damage, advertising injury | Intentional acts, employee injury (covered by workers’ compensation), contractual liability | $1,000,000 – $2,000,000 per occurrence |
Professional Liability (E&O) | Negligence, errors, omissions in professional services | Fraud, intentional acts, breach of contract | $100,000 – $1,000,000 per claim |
Product Liability | Bodily injury or property damage caused by defective products | Intentional acts, damage caused by misuse of the product | $1,000,000 – $5,000,000 per occurrence |
Key Considerations When Choosing a Policy
Picking the right liability insurance policy is crucial for protecting your business. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation; the ideal policy depends heavily on your specific business type, operations, and risk profile. Failing to carefully consider all aspects can leave you significantly underinsured and vulnerable to potentially devastating financial losses.Choosing the right policy involves a careful evaluation of several key factors.
Ignoring these factors could lead to inadequate coverage, leaving your business exposed to substantial financial risks in the event of a lawsuit or accident. A well-informed decision, however, will provide the peace of mind that comes with knowing your business is properly protected.
Coverage Limits and Deductibles
Understanding coverage limits and deductibles is paramount. Coverage limits define the maximum amount your insurer will pay for covered claims. Deductibles represent the amount you’ll pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, a policy with a $1 million liability limit and a $5,000 deductible means your insurer will cover up to $1 million in damages, but you’ll be responsible for the first $5,000.
Higher limits generally mean higher premiums, but provide greater protection against significant lawsuits. Conversely, a higher deductible lowers your premiums but increases your out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a claim. The optimal balance depends on your risk tolerance and financial capacity.
Policy Exclusions and Limitations
Every liability insurance policy contains exclusions – specific events or circumstances that are not covered. Common exclusions might include intentional acts, employee dishonesty, or environmental damage. Limitations specify conditions or restrictions on coverage, such as time limits for filing claims or geographical restrictions on coverage. Thoroughly reviewing these exclusions and limitations is critical. For instance, a policy might exclude coverage for bodily injury caused by operating a vehicle not specifically listed on the policy.
Understanding these limitations is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises if a claim arises.
Questions to Ask Your Insurance Provider
Before committing to a policy, it’s essential to have a comprehensive understanding of its terms and conditions. This involves actively engaging with your insurance provider and asking clarifying questions.
- What specific types of liability are covered under the policy?
- What are the policy’s coverage limits and deductibles, and how can these be adjusted?
- Are there any exclusions or limitations that could affect my business’s operations?
- What is the claims process, and what documentation is required to file a claim?
- What is the insurer’s financial stability rating, and how does this affect the likelihood of claim payments?
- What are the options for increasing coverage limits or adjusting deductibles in the future?
- What are the policy’s renewal terms and conditions?
Understanding Policy Language and Clauses
Navigating the world of liability insurance policies requires understanding the specific language and clauses within the document. These terms and conditions determine the extent of coverage and the process for filing a claim. Misunderstanding key terms can have significant financial repercussions for your business. Let’s break down some crucial elements.
Liability insurance policies utilize specific terminology that can be initially confusing. However, understanding these terms is crucial for making informed decisions about your coverage. Key terms are often defined within the policy itself, but it’s helpful to have a general understanding beforehand.
Common Policy Terminology
Several key terms frequently appear in liability insurance policies. Grasping their meaning is essential to interpreting your coverage accurately. Failure to understand these terms can lead to disputes and inadequate protection.
- Indemnity: This refers to the insurer’s promise to compensate you for covered losses. Essentially, the insurance company agrees to “make you whole” financially after a covered incident. For example, if your business is sued and found liable for causing bodily injury, the indemnity clause would obligate the insurer to pay damages up to the policy limit.
- Occurrence: An occurrence policy covers incidents that happen during the policy period, regardless of when the claim is filed. This means that even if a claim is made after the policy expires, it will still be covered as long as the incident occurred while the policy was active. For instance, if a customer slips and falls in your store in 2024 and files a lawsuit in 2025, an occurrence policy from 2024 would still cover the claim.
- Claims-Made: A claims-made policy only covers incidents for which a claim is filed during the policy period. If an incident occurs during the policy period but the claim is filed later, after the policy has expired, it’s typically not covered. A claims-made policy often requires a “tail” coverage, an extension purchased after the policy ends, to cover claims arising from incidents that occurred during the policy period but are filed after its expiration.
Occurrence Versus Claims-Made Policies
The choice between occurrence and claims-made policies significantly impacts your business’s risk management. Understanding the differences is vital for selecting the appropriate coverage. The implications of each can significantly impact your long-term financial security.
- Occurrence Policies: Offer broader protection, covering incidents that occur during the policy period, even if claims are filed later. This provides peace of mind, knowing that you’re protected against future claims stemming from past incidents. However, premiums may be higher.
- Claims-Made Policies: Are generally less expensive upfront but require careful consideration of tail coverage. Failing to secure appropriate tail coverage leaves your business vulnerable to claims filed after the policy expires, which could be devastating.
Comparison of Policy Clauses
Various clauses within a liability insurance policy can significantly affect your coverage. A thorough understanding of these clauses is crucial to ensure you have adequate protection. Ignoring these nuances could leave your business exposed to substantial financial risk.
Clause | Description | Implications for Businesses |
---|---|---|
Exclusions | Specific events or situations not covered by the policy. | Understanding exclusions is crucial to avoid surprises. Common exclusions include intentional acts, employee injuries covered by workers’ compensation, and pollution damage. |
Limits of Liability | The maximum amount the insurer will pay for a single claim or during the policy period. | Businesses should ensure their limits are adequate to cover potential losses. Low limits could leave the business financially responsible for exceeding amounts. |
Deductible | The amount the insured must pay before the insurer starts paying. | Higher deductibles result in lower premiums, but require greater financial capacity to handle initial costs. |
Conditions | Specific requirements the insured must meet to maintain coverage. | Failing to comply with conditions, such as timely notification of claims, can jeopardize coverage. |
Negotiating Policy Terms and Coverage
Securing the best liability insurance policy for your business isn’t just about finding the cheapest option; it’s about negotiating a policy that accurately reflects your risk profile and provides comprehensive coverage. This involves strategic communication with insurers and a thorough understanding of your business’s unique needs. Effective negotiation can save your business significant money and potential headaches down the line.Negotiating favorable terms requires a proactive approach.
Don’t simply accept the first quote you receive. Instead, view the initial offer as a starting point for a conversation aimed at improving the policy’s terms and coverage. Remember, insurers are businesses too, and they often have some flexibility in their pricing and coverage options.
Strategies for Negotiating Favorable Terms and Coverage
Effective negotiation hinges on a thorough understanding of your business’s risk profile and a clear articulation of your needs to the insurer. This includes presenting detailed information about your operations, the types of liabilities you face, and your loss history (if any). Having a clear understanding of your industry’s standard practices and coverage levels is also crucial. This allows you to confidently discuss your needs and justify your requests for specific coverage amounts or exclusions.
For example, if your business involves high-risk activities, you might need higher liability limits than a business with lower risk. Similarly, if you operate in a high-liability state, you’ll need to factor that into your negotiations. Providing detailed financial statements can demonstrate your business’s stability and financial capacity, which can be advantageous during negotiations.
Communicating Business Needs and Risk Profiles to Insurers
Clearly communicating your business’s specific needs and risk profile is paramount. This goes beyond simply filling out an application. Prepare a comprehensive document outlining your business operations, potential liabilities, and any relevant safety measures you’ve implemented. This might include details about your workplace safety protocols, employee training programs, or risk management strategies. The more information you provide, the better the insurer can understand your risk profile and tailor a policy that meets your specific needs.
Consider supplementing your written communication with a phone call or meeting to address any questions or concerns the insurer might have. This personal interaction can help build rapport and facilitate a more productive negotiation.
Obtaining Multiple Quotes and Comparing Policy Options
Never settle for the first quote you receive. Shop around and obtain quotes from multiple insurance providers. This allows you to compare different policy options, coverage levels, and pricing structures. Create a spreadsheet to compare key features, such as liability limits, deductibles, exclusions, and premiums. This systematic approach will enable you to identify the best policy for your business’s specific needs and budget.
Don’t hesitate to negotiate with multiple insurers simultaneously; this can create a competitive environment and potentially lead to more favorable terms. Remember to compare apples to apples – ensure that the policies you’re comparing offer similar coverage levels before focusing solely on price.
The Role of Risk Management in Liability Insurance
Proactive risk management isn’t just a good idea; it’s a crucial element in securing favorable liability insurance. By demonstrating a commitment to minimizing potential risks, businesses can significantly reduce their premiums and negotiate better policy terms with insurers. Essentially, a well-managed risk profile translates to lower costs and broader coverage.Implementing a robust risk management strategy involves a thorough assessment of potential liabilities, followed by the development and implementation of mitigation strategies.
This proactive approach shows insurers that the business understands its exposures and is actively working to control them, leading to a more attractive risk profile.
So you’re crafting a solid liability insurance policy for your business – smart move! Knowing what to include is key, but equally important is understanding how to handle things if your insurer acts shady. Check out this article on How to Identify Signs of Bad Faith by Your Insurance Company to protect yourself from potential insurer shenanigans.
Ultimately, a well-drafted policy and awareness of bad faith practices go hand-in-hand for strong business protection.
Risk Assessment Methods for Businesses
A comprehensive risk assessment is the cornerstone of effective risk management. Several methods can be employed, each with its strengths and weaknesses, depending on the size and complexity of the business. Choosing the right method(s) will depend on factors like industry, size, and resources.
- Checklist Method: This simple approach uses pre-defined checklists to identify potential hazards. It’s suitable for smaller businesses with straightforward operations. A checklist might include items such as fire safety, equipment maintenance, and employee training. While easy to implement, it may not uncover less obvious risks.
- What-If Analysis: This technique involves brainstorming potential scenarios that could lead to liability claims. For example, “What if a customer slips and falls on our premises?” or “What if a product defect causes injury?” This method encourages creative thinking to uncover less obvious risks. It is best used in conjunction with other methods.
- Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA): This more sophisticated approach systematically identifies potential failure points in processes and assesses their potential impact. It’s particularly useful for businesses with complex operations or manufacturing processes. This method involves ranking risks by severity and likelihood, allowing for prioritized mitigation efforts.
Sample Risk Assessment Form for a Small Business
The following is a sample risk assessment form adaptable to various small businesses. Remember to tailor it to your specific business operations and risks.
Risk Factor | Description | Likelihood (Low, Medium, High) | Impact (Low, Medium, High) | Mitigation Strategy | Responsible Person | Deadline |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Slip and Fall | Customer slips on wet floor | Medium | High | Implement regular cleaning and signage | Jane Doe | 1 week |
Product Liability | Defect in product causes injury | Low | High | Strengthen quality control procedures | John Smith | 2 weeks |
Employee Injury | Employee injured during work | Medium | Medium | Improve safety training | Safety Officer | 1 month |
Data Breach | Customer data compromised | Low | High | Implement data encryption and security protocols | IT Manager | 3 months |
Claims Process and Procedures

Source: qstuts.com
Navigating the claims process after a liability incident can feel overwhelming, but understanding the steps involved can significantly ease the burden. A smooth and efficient process relies heavily on proactive documentation and prompt communication with your insurer. This section Artikels the typical steps involved and provides best practices for maximizing your chances of a successful claim.Filing a liability insurance claim typically involves several key steps.
First, you need to report the incident to your insurance provider as soon as possible, usually within the timeframe specified in your policy. This initial notification triggers the claims process. Next, you’ll need to provide detailed information about the incident, including dates, times, locations, and involved parties. This information will be used to assess the claim’s validity and potential liability.
So, you’re looking at legal tips for drafting a solid liability insurance policy for your business? It’s all about protecting your assets, right? But what if you need to fight for a payout? Understanding the process is key, which is why checking out resources like Legal Options for Contesting a Life Insurance Payout Denial can be super helpful.
Knowing your rights on both sides of the coin is crucial for business owners. Back to your liability policy – make sure you’re covered comprehensively!
Your insurer will then investigate the claim, gathering evidence and potentially interviewing witnesses. Following the investigation, the insurer will make a determination regarding coverage and liability. If coverage is approved, the insurer will work to settle the claim, which may involve negotiating with the claimant or their legal representative. Finally, the insurer will process the payment of any awarded damages or settlements.
Incident Documentation and Evidence Gathering
Thorough documentation is critical for a successful claim. Immediately following an incident, take detailed notes, including the date, time, location, and a description of what happened. Record the names and contact information of all witnesses, and if possible, obtain written statements from them. Take photographs or videos of the scene, any injuries sustained, and any damaged property.
Preserve any relevant documents, such as police reports, medical records, and repair estimates. The more comprehensive your documentation, the stronger your claim will be. For example, if a customer slips and falls in your store, documenting the presence of a wet floor without a warning sign is crucial. Photos of the wet floor, the lack of signage, and the customer’s injuries are essential pieces of evidence.
Importance of Timely Notification
Prompt notification to your insurance provider is paramount. Most policies have specific time limits for reporting incidents. Failure to meet these deadlines can jeopardize your claim. Delaying notification can create the impression of attempting to conceal information or worsen the situation, potentially impacting the insurer’s assessment of the claim. For instance, a delay in reporting a property damage claim might allow the damage to worsen, increasing the overall cost of repair and potentially affecting coverage.
Contacting your insurer immediately establishes a record of the incident and initiates the investigation process, which is far more efficient than waiting until later.
Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
Navigating the world of liability insurance involves more than just picking a policy; it necessitates understanding the legal landscape and ensuring your coverage aligns with relevant regulations. Failure to do so can lead to significant financial and legal repercussions, highlighting the importance of proactive compliance. This section will Artikel key regulatory considerations and the potential consequences of non-compliance.Many regulations impacting liability insurance are industry-specific.
For example, a construction company will face different requirements than a software development firm. State and federal laws also play a significant role, dictating minimum coverage amounts for certain types of businesses or activities. Furthermore, specific types of insurance, such as environmental liability insurance, have unique compliance standards. Ignoring these regulations can result in hefty fines, legal battles, and even the inability to operate legally.
Relevant Regulations and Compliance Requirements
Understanding which regulations apply to your business is crucial. This often involves researching state and federal laws, as well as industry-specific rules. For instance, the construction industry might face specific requirements regarding workers’ compensation insurance, while healthcare providers must adhere to HIPAA regulations influencing their medical malpractice insurance. The failure to meet these requirements can lead to substantial penalties, including suspension or revocation of licenses, and exposure to lawsuits due to inadequate coverage.
Implications of Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with liability insurance regulations carries severe consequences. These can range from financial penalties imposed by regulatory bodies to legal liabilities arising from insufficient coverage in the event of a claim. For example, a business operating without the minimum required workers’ compensation insurance could face significant fines and be held responsible for all medical expenses and lost wages of injured employees.
Furthermore, a lack of appropriate environmental liability insurance could leave a business vulnerable to devastating costs associated with environmental damage. In some cases, non-compliance could even lead to criminal charges.
Resources for Finding Information on Relevant Regulations
Businesses can access essential information regarding liability insurance regulations through various channels. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) website provides a wealth of information on insurance regulations across different states. Individual state insurance departments also offer resources specific to their jurisdictions. Furthermore, industry associations often provide guidance and resources tailored to their respective sectors. Consulting with an experienced insurance broker or legal professional can also provide valuable insight and ensure compliance.
Finally, the Small Business Administration (SBA) offers numerous resources for small businesses navigating regulatory requirements.
Types of Liability Insurance Endorsements
Think of your liability insurance policy as a foundational document outlining your basic coverage. Endorsements, however, are the add-ons, the customizations that tailor your policy to your specific business needs and risks. They modify, expand, or limit the coverage provided in your primary policy. Understanding endorsements is crucial for ensuring you have the right protection.Endorsements are essentially legally binding additions or alterations to your existing liability insurance policy.
They’re written agreements that change specific aspects of the policy, such as adding coverage for specific situations, excluding certain types of liability, or modifying existing limits. They’re usually added for a fee, reflecting the increased risk or coverage provided.
Additional Insured Endorsement
This common endorsement adds another party to your existing policy as an “insured.” For example, if you’re a contractor working on a project for a client, you might add the client as an additional insured. This protects the client from liability arising from your work on their property. This protects both parties, ensuring that if someone is injured due to your work, the client’s assets aren’t at risk.
The specific details of coverage for the additional insured will vary depending on the endorsement’s wording.
Pollution Exclusion Endorsement
This endorsement either limits or excludes coverage for pollution-related incidents. Many standard liability policies have broad pollution exclusions to avoid covering environmental damage. However, depending on your industry, you might need to specifically address this. A business handling hazardous materials, for example, might need a tailored pollution liability policy or endorsement that modifies the standard exclusion to fit their specific risk profile.
This is crucial because environmental cleanup can be incredibly expensive.
Liquor Liability Endorsement
If your business serves alcohol, this endorsement is essential. It covers liability claims resulting from alcohol-related incidents, such as injuries caused by intoxicated patrons. Standard commercial general liability policies often exclude alcohol-related incidents. This endorsement helps mitigate the risk associated with alcohol service, protecting your business from significant financial losses in the event of a lawsuit. The coverage usually includes bodily injury and property damage resulting from alcohol-related incidents on your premises.
Hired and Non-Owned Auto Endorsement
This endorsement extends liability coverage to vehicles your employees use for business purposes, even if those vehicles aren’t owned by your company. This is important for businesses that rely on employees using their personal vehicles for work-related travel. It provides liability protection if an employee causes an accident while driving their own car on company business. The endorsement clarifies coverage and avoids disputes regarding who is responsible in case of an accident.
Workers’ Compensation Endorsement (Modification)
While not strictly a liability endorsement, it’s often relevant. This can modify the existing workers’ compensation coverage to align with specific state regulations or the unique needs of your business. For example, it might extend coverage to independent contractors or adjust benefits for certain types of injuries. Compliance with workers’ compensation laws is crucial, and this endorsement helps ensure that your policy meets all legal requirements.
Maintaining Adequate Coverage Over Time

Source: staticflickr.com
Regularly reviewing and updating your business’s liability insurance coverage is crucial for protecting your assets and ensuring you’re adequately protected against potential risks. Failing to do so could leave your business vulnerable to significant financial losses in the event of a lawsuit or accident. This proactive approach safeguards your business’s future and maintains its financial stability.Your liability insurance needs are dynamic and evolve alongside your business.
A policy that was sufficient a year ago might be woefully inadequate today. Several factors can influence the need for adjustments, impacting both the amount of coverage and the specific types of coverage required. Understanding these factors and implementing a regular review process is key to maintaining adequate protection.
Factors Requiring Policy Changes
Several factors can trigger the need for changes to your liability insurance policy. These changes can range from simple adjustments to a complete overhaul of your coverage. Ignoring these factors can have serious consequences. For example, rapid business growth may significantly increase your exposure to liability, while changes in operations might introduce new risks requiring specialized coverage.
- Business Growth: Expansion into new markets, increased revenue, hiring more employees, or acquiring other businesses all significantly increase your potential liability. A larger operation inherently faces greater risk.
- Changes in Operations: Introducing new products or services, changing your business location, or adopting new technologies can expose your business to previously unforeseen risks. For example, a bakery expanding to include a cafe might need additional coverage for slip-and-fall incidents.
- Legal and Regulatory Changes: New laws and regulations can impact your liability exposure. For example, stricter environmental regulations might necessitate higher limits on pollution liability coverage.
- Industry Trends: Changes in your industry, such as increased competition or new technological advancements, may affect your liability profile. Staying abreast of these trends is vital.
- Claims History: Filing claims, even if successfully defended, can signal increased risk to insurers, potentially leading to higher premiums or stricter policy terms in the future.
A Plan for Periodic Review and Adjustment
A proactive approach to managing your liability insurance involves establishing a clear and consistent review schedule. This should be a part of your overall risk management strategy. Consider the following plan:
- Annual Review: Conduct a comprehensive review of your policy at least once a year. This should involve assessing your current operations, evaluating your risk profile, and comparing your coverage to industry benchmarks.
- Trigger Events: Review your policy immediately following any significant event, such as business expansion, a change in operations, or a claim. This allows for prompt adjustments to ensure continued adequate coverage.
- Consult with an Insurance Broker: Regularly consult with an experienced insurance broker. They can help you navigate the complexities of liability insurance and identify potential gaps in your coverage.
- Document Changes: Maintain detailed records of all policy changes, including the reasons for the changes and the dates of implementation. This is essential for auditing and compliance purposes.
Maintaining adequate liability insurance is not a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process requiring consistent vigilance and adaptation to the changing landscape of your business and its risks.
Wrap-Up
Protecting your business from liability isn’t just about ticking a box; it’s about proactively safeguarding your future. By understanding the nuances of liability insurance policies, negotiating favorable terms, and implementing strong risk management practices, you’re setting your business up for long-term success. Remember, a little planning now can save you a whole lot of headaches (and money!) down the road.
So, grab that insurance quote, read the fine print, and know you’ve taken a crucial step towards building a thriving and protected business. Now go get ’em!
Q&A: Legal Tips For Drafting A Liability Insurance Policy For Your Business
What’s the difference between “occurrence” and “claims-made” policies?
Occurrence policies cover incidents that happen during the policy period, regardless of when the claim is filed. Claims-made policies only cover claims filed during the policy period, even if the incident occurred earlier.
How often should I review my liability insurance policy?
At least annually, or whenever your business experiences significant changes (e.g., expansion, new products/services).
Can I get liability insurance if my business has a history of claims?
Yes, but it might be more expensive, or you might need to find a specialist insurer.
What if I can’t afford the deductible?
Consider raising your deductible to lower your premiums, but make sure you can handle the financial risk.
What happens if I don’t notify my insurer of a claim promptly?
Your claim might be denied or partially denied. Notify them ASAP.