Is double indemnity a standard provision of all life insurance policies in Laurel, Maryland?

Although for some years, double indemnity was often a standard provision of most life insurance policies in Laurel, Maryland and everywhere else. However, in modern years, this benefit is typically offered as an optional add-on to life insurance policies for an additional premium.

Double indemnity is a provision in some life insurance contracts that requires the carrier to pay up to double the amount of the policy if you die because of accidental causes. Historically, companies paid the amount of a standard policy times two. For example, a $50,000 death benefit would be increased to $100,000 if the insured died by accidental means, including murder, but not suicide.

In more recent times, the term double indemnity term is often a misnomer, as your beneficiaries often receive somewhat less than double the policy face amount. Multiple indemnities would be a more accurate term. However, double (or multiple) indemnity is no longer a standard provision of most life insurance coverage.

Increased payouts for accidental death are more commonly low-cost options that you can add to your coverage. Many companies offer separate accidental death policies in addition to this optional coverage. Accidental death policies are also inexpensive, since the statistics that you’ll pass away from a covered accident are very low.

Almost all of this coverage, whether add-on or separate policy, does not apply to suicide, you’re proven gross negligence or death by natural causes, such as disease. Although demise by murder is typically an accident you’d like to avoid, some double indemnity coverage also excludes this cause. Some accidental death policy language specifically states those accidents that are covered, excluding all other causes.

When you’re interested in or have questions about adding double indemnity or accidental death provisions to your life insurance policy, contact your trusted independent agent in the Laurel, Maryland or Washington, District of Columbia area. You’ll get all the answers and explanations you need from us, your independent agent, along with multiple online quotes from our insurance companies.