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Get DirectionsUmbrella insurance can help residents in Jacksonville, FL, pay for costs associated with liability lawsuits, helping ensure they don’t have to liquidate assets to cover a judgment. These policies can usually help with legal defense costs, but there are a few things worth understanding about how they actually work.
They Pick the Legal Team
Typically, a provider has a network of attorneys they already work with. They’ll generally select legal representation on your behalf to keep your defense within budget, knowing the lawyers involved are experienced and reliable. In some cases, you may be able to choose your own legal team, as long as your provider approves the choice.
You can always hire your own lawyer, but your policy provider may not cover the cost. It’s always worth speaking with an agent at Skyline Insurance LLC to learn more about this process, or if you’re ever unhappy with the legal defense being provided.
Secondary Insurance
Umbrella insurance is designed to work as secondary coverage alongside your home or auto policy. It steps in to cover remaining costs once your primary coverage reaches its limit. If your home or auto policy already includes liability protection for lawsuits, that insurer typically handles your legal defense, court costs, and other early-stage legal expenses first.
Your umbrella policy may then help cover a portion of the settlement if your primary coverage isn’t enough to fully resolve it. Generally speaking, umbrella coverage for legal defense doesn’t kick in until your primary policy’s limit has actually been reached.
We know this type of insurance can feel confusing, especially when figuring out how the two policies work together. Contact the agents at Skyline Insurance LLC today to learn more. We’re currently serving the Jacksonville, FL, area.
