Your Insurance Questions Answered

Yes, SR-22 often required to reinstate suspended license.

Typically requires minimum liability limits on underlying policies (often $250,000/$500,000 for auto and $300,000 for home) and good insurance history.

Yes, SR-22 requirements appear on driving records accessible to insurers and employers.

Some states use FR-44 or other forms; requirements vary by jurisdiction.

Must maintain SR-22 in original state and may need additional filing in new state.

May impact jobs requiring driving or clean driving record; visible on background checks.

Not all insurers offer SR-22; high-risk specialists more likely to provide coverage.

Umbrella provides broader coverage across multiple policies and can cover some claims not included in underlying policies, while excess liability only extends existing coverage limits.

A general rule is to have coverage equal to or greater than your total assets, including future income potential. Most policies start at $1 million.

Most insurers require underlying auto and home/renters coverage, though some may offer standalone coverage with higher premiums.

No, umbrella policies exclude intentional or criminal acts, business activities, and contractual liabilities.

It activates when underlying policy limits are exhausted or for certain claims not covered by primary policies but covered by the umbrella.

Coverage varies by insurer; international properties may require special endorsements or separate policies.

Yes, if listed on underlying auto policy, but may affect premium and required underlying limits.

Coverage includes personal injury, property damage, libel/slander, false arrest, and liability from serving on nonprofit boards.

Rental properties usually need to be listed specifically on the policy, with adequate underlying landlord liability coverage.

Generally no, business activities require commercial liability coverage, though incidental business activities might be covered.

Yes, most umbrella policies cover legal defense costs, often outside the policy limits, preserving coverage for settlements.

Factors include coverage amount, number of properties/vehicles, household members, previous claims, and underlying policy limits.

Umbrella covers liability, not physical damage. Personal property requires adequate underlying property coverage.

Claims typically start with primary insurance, transitioning to umbrella when limits exhaust or for umbrella-specific coverages.

Most policies provide worldwide coverage for personal activities, with some limitations for foreign properties or vehicles.

Small watercraft often covered automatically; larger vessels may need specific endorsements or separate policies.

Yes, though insurers may prefer aligning with underlying policy renewal dates for easier management.