Homeowners’ liability insurance is part of your homeowners’ policy and protects you, and family members who live with you, in instances where you may be liable, or legally responsible, for personal injuries or property damage to others.
There are two main types of instances where this insurance applies:
- The first instance occurs when someone is injured, or his or her property is damaged, while on your property. This commonly occurs in a slip and fall or trip and fall accident, but also applies to many other instances as well.
- The other instance applies to incidents caused by you, family members covered under the policy, or your property, which do not occur on your property. For example, you’re covered if you’re playing soccer and kick the ball through a neighbor’s window.
The coverage also breaks down into two main categories, personal liability coverage and medical payments coverage.
Personal Liability Coverage
In the event that you, or a family member living with you, are responsible for damages, this coverage will pay for the damages. If the injured files a lawsuit, then this coverage will pay for your legal defense or legal aid as well. It is important to note that this coverage only applies in instances of negligence; you are not covered in the event of intentional damage or injuries. This coverage normally appears with limits of $100,000 per occurrence or more.
Medical Payment Coverage
This insurance coverage will cover the necessary medical bills for someone injured on your property. These medical expenses include but are not limited to:
- Ambulance services
- Dental
- Hospital
- X-Ray
- Surgery
- Nursing
- Funeral Service
All policies are different, but most typically include medical payment coverage in an amount ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. For more information about your specific policy and possible exclusions, it is important to read your policy or talk with your insurance company.
If you or a loved one were injured by or on someone else’s property, you may have a personal injury claim and may be entitled to compensation. There is no reason you should be paying for your medical expenses out of pocket if the other party homeowner’s liability insurance could be covering the bills. Contact LMW Attorneys for a complimentary consultation to go over the details of your case and to learn about your options.