Insurance Policies and Self-Defense

[crebralfix]

It was mentioned to get an "umbrella policy" if you have assets and carry. What do I need to know about such policies (I know nothing at all). How much can/should I get? What does it cover and under what circumstances? Can I get insurance that will help me pay legal fees to if I have to defend myself in criminal and/or civil court? What should I look for in the policy?

(I did a search on insurance and came up with many unrelated threads).

 

[thexrayboy]

Read your policy, the fine print will enlighten you as to what specific acts or circumstances are not covered. If still in doubt talk to your insurance agent.

Each company has slight variations on what it will and will not cover and the circumstances. Do the research for the policy you have or are contemplating getting.

 

[MillCreek]

There have been many threads posted on this subject. Search under my user name for some of them. In a nutshell, the typical homeowners' or umbrella policy does not provide any civil liability coverage (defense costs or indemnity) for a self-defense shooting. The reason is the 'intentional act' exclusion. In some very few legal jurisdictions, due to case law decisions, there may be some coverage, but as a general rule, there is not. If an accidental shooting occurs, there is coverage. Pointing a gun at someone and then claiming it went off accidentally generally will not fly.

If you want a definitive answer, you need to contact the insurance company's legal or underwriting department and ask them how any such coverage applies in your state.

 

[crebralfix]

Thanks all for your responses.