Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance

Certain types of injuries in an accident are especially catastrophic. They can result in disability and long-term consequences that drastically alter an individual’s life. And of course, family members are significantly impacted when they lose a loved one in an accident.

When tragedies such as these occur, it helps to be financially protected. One way is through accidental death and dismemberment insurance.

Overview of Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance

This insurance is generally purchased as a rider on a health or life policy or is sometimes available through a mortgage or credit card company. The good news is that it’s relatively inexpensive to purchase. And although the chances of an accidental death or dismemberment might be relatively slim, in the event it were to happen it could provide extra coverage.

Most of the claims paid are a result of someone’s death. Although it can provide compensation to those who are named in a policy, it doesn’t necessarily replace other forms of protection such as life insurance or damages that may be available in a wrongful death claim if it was caused by someone else’s negligence.

Less often, claims are paid for dismemberment which means the loss of a body part (such as a limb). But they can also cover vision and/or hearing loss, and even accidents that cause paralysis.

There can be a lot of medical costs associated with dismemberment. So this extra protection might help in covering some of those. But it doesn’t necessarily discount legal action that could also be pursued in cases where it was caused by someone else’s careless or reckless actions.

Claimants might not be covered in certain circumstances. Let’s say an individual was injured in a car crash and lost both his/her legs. It’s also discovered that the person had been drinking at the time of the accident. This would likely prevent payment under accidental death and dismemberment insurance.

It’s a good idea to discuss all insurance options with a knowledgeable agent to review which coverage options may be right for a particular situation or a policyholder’s circumstances.

Other Options When a Loved One Is Killed or Dismembered

As mentioned, there may be legal options that should be considered if an accident causes someone’s death or dismemberment. When negligence is a factor, it would be a good idea to seek advice from an attorney who handles accident cases.

There could be compensation available that addresses current and future medical costs. This is important since multiple surgeries could be required or the person might have to undergo months of physical therapy. These additional expenses can quickly add up.

Meanwhile the person might be unable to work, which a claim against the negligent party can address. And if there is going to be future missed time from work, those earnings might also be included. Injuries that are disabling might allow for compensation that addresses earning potential until expected retirement age.

Surviving family members (such as spouses and children) could receive compensation for funeral expenses and emotional damages such as loss of companionship, grief and more.

To go over options to recover damages caused by another’s negligence, contact D.J. Banovitz. He can help establish liability for the death of a loved one or the catastrophic injuries sustained in a crash and assist in filing a wrongful death claim or personal injury claim.