Accident coverage

Accident coverage is a type of insurance that pays benefits for injuries resulting from sudden, unexpected events such as falls or car crashes. Policies typically cover out-of-pocket medical costs–like emergency room visits, X-rays, ambulance services, and hospital stays–up to policy limits set by providers including Aflac and MetLife, the Insurance Information Database states.

Accident coverage often supplements health insurance by paying lump-sum cash directly to insured individuals after eligible incidents. Premiums for accident coverage averaged $15–$50 per month for individuals in 2023 according to Policygenius.

Covered accidents usually include fractures, burns, lacerations, and accidental deaths, as listed in insurer product brochures. Exclusions regularly apply to injuries caused by high-risk activities such as professional sports or self-inflicted harm, as noted by insurers like Allstate and Colonial Life.

Payout amounts for accidental injuries range from $100 to over $10,000 depending on injury severity and policy terms. Claims must be filed within specific timeframes; for example, UnitedHealthcare requires submission within 90 days of the accident date.

Accident coverage differs from disability insurance because it does not replace lost wages but covers immediate medical expenses. You can purchase accident coverage through employers during open enrollment periods or directly from insurers year-round.

Family policies allow spouses and children to receive coverage, with added premiums typically increasing monthly costs by 20–40%.