Why You Need Umbrella Insurance Coverage

“I have been there so many times before and NOW I will be there for YOU and your family.”
- Tim Misny - The man that “Makes Them Pay!®”

“Please understand that the slogan, I’ll Make Them Pay!® is not a guarantee of payment. Both liability and real damages must be proven with preponderance of the evidence.” – Tim Misny

Why You Need Umbrella Insurance Coverage

Why You Need Umbrella Insurance Coverage in Ohio

You Get What You Pay For

The best free, friendly advice I could possibly give you is to purchase “umbrella” coverage as part and parcel of your automobile insurance policy.

If I had a quarter for every time there was inadequate insurance coverage to compensate my clients in a bad automobile accident, we could all go on vacation for a month.

In terms of automobile insurance coverage an “umbrella” policy is just that. It is insurance above and beyond your existing auto policy. For instance, if you have a $100k/$300k auto insurance policy (meaning $100k is available per person and $300k is available in the aggregate), it may not be sufficient to cover all of the damages of a bad accident. For very little money, you could have added a $1,000,000 umbrella rider/policy that would sufficiently cover the damages.

This additional coverage will cover you, your family, and/or anyone using your vehicle with your permission, whether they are at fault in an accident or a negligence-free victim. Typically, the annual premium for an umbrella policy is several hundred dollars per year. It’s really a great deal!

The need to obtain such coverage is overwhelming. Most drivers, and I’m saying at least 50% if not more, do not have auto insurance or just have the state minimum.

Therefore, one would have to assume, for insurance purposes, that if they or a loved one are made a victim in a car accident, the offending party WILL NOT have sufficient coverage to pay for the damages.

The damages in car accidents can include medical bills and lost wages, future medical treatment, therapy, surgeries, and rehab, as well as potentially a lifetime of diminished earning capacity.

The aggregate of these damages can exceed seven figures in a heartbeat.

It is my experience that insurance agents as a matter of common practice, do not inform their clients as to the existence of “umbrella” coverage.

Recently, I represented a family whose daughter was severely injured in a car accident. The offending party had minimal insurance coverage. My client was living with her parents and driving her father’s car at the time of the accident. Her father carried a $100k/$300k policy. Though I valued her case at approximately $2.5 million, tragically, we were limited to her dad’s $100,000 policy.

When I asked her father, a well-educated health care professional, if he had an “umbrella,” he said, “What do you mean…for rain?” In his 25-year-relationship with his insurance agent, the agent NEVER explained to this gentleman, the existence and compelling need for an “umbrella” policy.

I find that to be reprehensible.

Shockingly, Ohio courts have found an insurance agent owes no fiduciary duty to his or her clients. That is utter nonsense. The reason why insurance companies do not explain and recommend “umbrella” policies is because that’s when they have to pay out the big bucks.

Time and time again, I encounter the situation wherein an insurance agent fails to recommend an “umbrella” and consequently, the client is involved in a bad accident and there is not enough coverage to make them whole.

While insurance agents typically do not recommend “umbrella” coverage, they do suggest medical payment provisions. A medical payment provision is an amount of money available, typically $5,000, for payment of medical expenses incurred in an accident.

The caveat, however, is that medical payment provisions can only be accessed if there is no other available medical payment coverage, such as workers’ compensation and/or a person’s own health insurance. In the rare instance that a medical payment provision is accessed, virtually every insurance policy has a subrogation clause that demands that the auto policy be reimbursed dollar for dollar once the claim is resolved.

In essence, people pay a significant amount for medical payment provisions that they are rarely able to use. Instead of paying a premium for medical payment provisions, people would be much better off using those same funds to purchase “umbrella” coverage.

Do yourself a favor, pick up the phone today, and call your insurance agent. Ask about the affordability of “umbrella” coverage for you and your family. When he or she is done giving you a quote, ask them why they never told you about it in the first place.

What is Umbrella Insurance?

Liability Coverage

This insurance is designed to provide an additional layer of liability coverage beyond the limits of your standard home and auto insurance policies. While these policies offer valuable protection, they may have limitations on the amount they can pay out in the event of a claim. An umbrella policy acts as a financial safety net, ensuring if you face a substantial liability claim, you won’t be personally responsible for covering the excess costs. This can be particularly important in cases where lawsuits result in significant financial judgments.

Protection Against Wrongdoing

Nobody plans to be involved in an accident or to cause harm to others, but accidents do happen. If you find yourself in a situation where you are held legally responsible for injuring someone, or damaging their property, an umbrella insurance policy can step in to help cover the associated costs. This includes not only the medical expenses of the injured party, but also legal fees, settlements, and even lost wages if the injured person is unable to work.

Property Damage

Auto accidents or mishaps on your property can lead to significant property damage. If the damage exceeds the liability limits of your auto or homeowners’ insurance policies, an umbrella policy can bridge the gap. For instance, if you cause a multi-vehicle accident with extensive property damage, your auto insurance may fall short in covering the full costs. An umbrella policy can be a financial lifesaver in such scenarios, preventing you from having to dip into your savings or liquidating other assets to cover the excess costs.

Wrongful Death Settlement

Tragically, accidents can sometimes result in loss of life, leading to wrongful death claims. These claims can result in substantial settlements or judgments against you, including compensation for the deceased person’s family. An umbrella insurance policy can provide critical support in helping to cover the legal fees and settlements associated with a wrongful death claim, and to ensure your personal assets are not at risk.

Surgery

In the unfortunate event that you or a family member is injured due to an accident or negligence for which you are held liable, medical bills can quickly add up. This may include expenses for surgery and surgical intensive care units. An umbrella policy can offer peace of mind by helping to cover these unexpected and potentially high medical costs. This will ensure you or your loved one receives the necessary care without causing financial strain.

Medical Bills

Liability claims can extend to cover medical expenses incurred by others who are injured on your property. For example, if a guest slips and falls while visiting your home, they may require medical treatment, including surgical procedures. An umbrella insurance policy can step in to cover these medical bills, sparing you from having to pay out of pocket.

Peace of Mind

Beyond the financial aspects, umbrella insurance provides invaluable peace of mind. It acts as a safety net, allowing you to enjoy life without the constant worry of unforeseen accidents or lawsuits draining your finances. Knowing that you have this extra layer of protection can enhance your overall sense of security and financial well-being.

This type of insurance policy is a vital tool for protecting your financial stability and assets in the face of unexpected accidents. It will help cover liability claims, property damage, and even more serious situations like wrongful death settlements and surgical procedures. This offers comprehensive coverage and peace of mind in an unpredictable world.

When You Need Umbrella Insurance

Medical Malpractice – Mishandled Surgical Procedure

In the unfortunate event that you or a family member experience a mishandled surgical procedure resulting in serious injury or complications, this insurance policy can offer substantial financial support. It not only covers the medical bills, including potential stays in the surgical intensive care unit, but also helps you pursue a legal claim against the healthcare provider for the wrongdoing. This additional financial backing is crucial for obtaining the best possible medical care and to seek justice.

Homeowner’s Liability

Mishaps on your property can lead to liability claims. For example, if a guest at your home sustains an injury due to a slip and fall, your home insurance policy may cover a portion of their medical expenses. However, if their injuries are severe and result in prolonged medical treatment and surgery, the costs can quickly surpass the limits of your home insurance. Umbrella insurance fills this gap. You can cover not only the medical bills, but also potential legal expenses if the injured party files a lawsuit.

Boating or Recreational Accidents

If you own a boat, engage in recreational activities, or even host gatherings on your boat, accidents can happen. In the event of injuries or property damage related to boating or recreational activities, this type of insurance can provide the extra financial protection needed. It will cover medical expenses, property damage, and potential legal liabilities.

Umbrella insurance extends its protective coverage over various situations, including medical malpractice, auto accidents and home liability incidents. It is important to also be covered for accidents related to boating or recreational activities. The unlimited financial support to cover unforeseen expenses and liabilities, provides a sense of financial security in a wide range of circumstances.

Who Does Umbrella Insurance Benefit

Homeowners

Homeowners can benefit from umbrella insurance because it extends liability coverage beyond the limits of their standard home insurance policy. In the event of an accident on their property, this insurance can cover medical expenses and legal fees that may exceed their home insurance limits. It will safeguard your assets and savings.

Parents

Parents often have higher liability exposure due to family activities, hosting events, and having teenage drivers. Umbrella insurance can help protect parents from costly liability claims stemming from accidents or injuries involving their children – whether at home, on the road, or during recreational activities.

Business Owners

Business owners can face legal challenges and liability claims related to their operations. Umbrella insurance can offer additional financial protection by covering legal costs and settlements in a lawsuit. This helps business owners safeguard their personal assets from potential business-related liabilities.

Landlords

People who own rental properties may encounter liability issues involving tenants or property maintenance. Umbrella insurance can provide extra coverage for liability claims, including those related to tenant injuries, property damage, or other landlord responsibilities.

Drivers

Drivers, especially those with high net worth, can benefit from umbrella insurance as it provides added liability coverage beyond the limits of their auto insurance. In the event of a serious accident where they are at fault, umbrella insurance helps to cover medical expenses, property damage, and potential legal costs that may exceed their auto insurance limits.

High-Net-Worth Individuals

Individuals with substantial wealth are often targets for larger liability claims. Umbrella insurance is especially crucial for high-net-worth individuals, as it shields their wealth and investments from being seized in the event of a substantial judgment or settlement.

Frequent Travelers

Travelers may encounter various risks while abroad, including accidents, injuries, or incidents involving rented properties. Umbrella insurance can provide worldwide coverage, offering financial protection in case they face liability claims, lawsuits, or medical expenses while traveling.

Pet Owner

Pet owners may face liability claims if their pets injure someone or cause property damage. Umbrella insurance can help cover medical bills and legal fees resulting from such incidents, ensuring that pet owners are financially protected from unexpected pet-related liabilities.

Event Hosts

People who frequently host gatherings, parties, or events at their homes can benefit from umbrella insurance. It provides protection against liability claims arising from accidents or injuries that occur during these events, ensuring that hosts are not financially burdened by unexpected legal expenses.

Umbrella insurance offers an extra layer of financial protection for a wide range of individuals. This includes homeowners, parents, business owners, landlords, boat owners, drivers, high-net-worth individuals, frequent travelers, pet owners, and event hosts. It helps safeguard your assets and financial well-being by covering liability claims, legal fees, and medical expenses that may exceed the limits of your primary insurance policies.

Insurance companies are some of the biggest corporate entities, and they have very deep pockets. They are also notorious for not paying out damages. If you need help, call the Law Offices of Tim Misny today for a free consultation. I’ve successfully pursued thousands of cases, and I can help you too.

ASK TIM A QUESTION
NO COST TO YOU!

Krystle Banks
Krystle Banks
14:32 20 Sep 23
Christine Filippelli
Christine Filippelli
01:55 18 May 23
DeAndre Merritt
DeAndre Merritt
06:58 23 Mar 23
Jake Ferri
Jake Ferri
23:46 01 Aug 22
I have no case and no one that I need Tim Misney to make pay, just wanted to say the best part of my day is getting to... drive by his billboards. His People's Eyebrow is immaculate and the new billboard with him on the motorcycle is downright bitchin'. Thank you Tim Misney for significantly improving the quality of my life.read more
Jennifer Malainy
Jennifer Malainy
22:44 19 Jul 22
My favorite lawyer. Truly one of the kindest, smartest, and most genuine humans I have ever met. There is only one TIM... MISNY and he will make them pay!! God Bless.read more
C M V
C M V
01:16 16 Feb 22
I spoke to Amy and Christine about a possible personal injury case involving my father and they were both helpful,... professional, knowledgeable and responsive. Although they could not help us with our case, I would highly recommend them!read more
Stephen Burks
Stephen Burks
20:12 21 Jan 22
It really comes down to what people say and do when they don't think anyone that matters is listening or they'll get... anything in return.There's the Tim Misny you see on the billboards and on TV, but there's another Tim Misny that I know up close and personal.The Tim Misny I know is genuinely passionate about helping the hard working little folks who get pushed around the big folks. He actually, really honestly cares about people who run into bad luck at no fault of their own. Tim has quietly, out of the sight of cameras and with no fanfare shared generously with the marginalized in our society; single moms, Veterans and others without expecting anything in return.He calls them like he sees them and you wouldn't want to take your troubles to anyone else.read more
mark colucci
mark colucci
14:33 06 Dec 21
Mr. Misny is an angel here on earth and the BEST attorney in Ohio. He has helped my daughter who is in law school when... she needed the guidance most. He is a class act, a great family man, and extremely caring. If you need a lawyer in this field I would HIGHLY recommend. There is no other lawyer, in my opinion, better than Tim Misny.Thank you Tim for being a light in this community!read more
Damon Mitchell Sr .1st. (The Old-Man !!! Pop's !!!)
Damon Mitchell Sr .1st. (The Old-Man !!! Pop's !!!)
02:43 27 Nov 21
Advice on Law question? Also Advise to do more research for Different types of Situations that’s Criminal and Civil... Pursuits!City, State and Above State Level Situation .Pro Se !read more
Gianna Colucci
Gianna Colucci
12:56 04 Nov 21
Mr. Misny is the best! I am a 27-year-old single mother, and I am finishing law school in May at Cleveland-Marshall... College of Law. When I found myself jobless during the height of the pandemic, I knew I needed help. Going into the legal profession, I wanted to be JUST LIKE Mr. Misny because I knew he was the most successful attorney in the industry. I called him up one day just for the hell of it to see if there was anyway he could help me. I never thought such a big name/reputation like him would respond to me. However, when he learned of my financial situation he PERSONALLY called my cell phone within 5 minutes of my email. Not only has he helped me secure employment, but he continues to teach me every single day what it takes to be the BEST lawyer in the legal profession. I am forever thankful for Mr. Misny. He changed my life. He continues to inspire me every single day, and I am so proud that he took me under his wing and is my mentor. He is the most intelligent, kindest, caring attorney I have ever met, and he is giving me the tools I need to be the most successful lawyer I can be o give my four-year-old son, Gregory, the life he deserves. THANK YOU MR. TIM MISNY. I owe my entire future legal career to you because if you didn't take the time out of your busy day to call me that day and help me when no one else would, I would not have been able to stay in law school. You change lives every single day. Keep being you Tim. There is no one like Tim Misny.read more
Brandon Hagerdon
Brandon Hagerdon
20:53 18 May 21
I met Tim 6 years ago when he was working with my mother. Since then we were able to stay in touch and build a... relationship. I reached out to Tim recently about an opportunity and he was able to connect the dots and help me with this. During this process he gave me his direct number to contact him if need be. If you are in need of any sort of help, I would recommend Tim every time.read more
Jimmie Graham
Jimmie Graham
19:26 30 Mar 21
Tim is hands down the best lawyer in town. He was able to guide me through the legal process and keep me informed at... all stages. Which allowed me to not stress and focus on life. He was able to get me the best deal possible in my court case. One thing that blew me away is that he gave me his direct cell number and answered anytime I had a question which is rare with most lawyers. 100% Misny is the guy! There's a reason he's on literally every billboard in Cleveland.read more
Paul McFadden
Paul McFadden
13:29 20 Jan 21
My relationship with Tim goes back over 30 years and is one of great trust and mutual respect. Tim represented me at a... critical point in my life and I will always be indebted to him for the difference he made. He is always just a phone call away.read more
Rick Miller
Rick Miller
18:55 21 Dec 20
If I could reach into the sky just to pull more than 5 stars down for a rating I would! I have used other lawyers in... the past and it was such a pain to reach them when I needed them. Tim is in all honesty there for you. He gave me his personal phone number, and at anytime or any day he answered. If I had to leave a message I could count to 10 and he would already be calling me back. He also was willing to talk on the weekends! He didn’t just forward me to an impersonal automated system or a person with no experience. I will NEVER use another person for legal advice. He’s gracious enough to give me guidance whenever I have a question. No matter how complex. This may sound like an advertisement but I assure you this man was more in touch when I had an issue than my own family. A reasonable and caring family man who will MAKE THEM PAY!Thank you Timread more
PJ Camargo/Authentik Movement Training
PJ Camargo/Authentik Movement Training
01:51 22 Oct 20
I've had the pleasure of getting to know Tim personally over the past 2 years. Beyond him being an incredible lawyer &... 'Jack of all trades ' he is an amazing friend. One thing I love most is that he is family oriented & always making quality time for his loved ones. He inspires me to be a great role model &father figure one day. Tim loves nature & shares the true beauty of nature with how he raises his kids. From biking through trails & having his kids learn how to nurture the family garden - he teaches valuable lessons on how to appreciate the world we live in. I know that Tim is just a phone call away & always urgent to responding no matter the situation. He has given me some of the greatest advice & continously throwing positive energy my way! I'm honored to know him & be a friend of his. He is the true practioneer of changing lives & paying it forward. He has taught me so much in just a short amount of time. Tim Misny, a man that wakes up every single day to make a difference!read more
Scott Plate
Scott Plate
16:49 10 Oct 20
Tim has created a highly visible and effective law practice, and despite his decades of experience, he has never once... forgotten why he got into this business in the first place: to help people. He puts his whole heart into his work, and he works hard for everyone he represents. He has a gift for tuning out the noise and tuning into the core of what his clients need, and making it clear he has heard them. As a result, we feel empowered. He is smart, resourceful, creative, positive, and solution-oriented. His abundant energy makes people feel better, stronger, and valued. He loves and promotes his community; he gives back generously, and he always leaves everything better than he found it. Tim is a true man of action, and a man of his word. Could not recommend him more highly.read more
Mike M
Mike M
04:44 09 Oct 20
As a young man, I worked at a local garden center. I came from a family that had too many problems to list. I felt I... was never destined to be anything good. I had always wanted to be a police officer since I was a little boy. But, one side of my family told me that I would never be good enough to do it. Anytime I brought it up, they knocked me down until I started to believe that I could never accomplish my dream. One day, about 20 years ago, while working at that garden center, a very tall man came in and asked me to help him select plants. As we walked around the garden center, he struck up a conversation with me. He was very friendly and kind. I was a skinny teenager in dirty blue jeans and a t shirt. This man was dressed very nicely and I was surprised at how nice he was to me. During our conversation, he asked me what I wanted to do with my life after school. I told him that I wanted to be a police officer but many people told me that I’d never make it. I told him how my very own father said I wasn’t smart enough, brave enough, and I was wasting my time. I remember looking at the ground while I explained this to him. The man stopped and got serious. His voice dropped an octave and he looked me dead in the eyes. He pointed his finger at me and told me that I could make anything of my life that I wanted. He told me that it was up to ME to make my life goals come true. He told me to ignore anybody who tells me otherwise. He assured me that if I studied hard in school and never gave up on my dreams that they would become a reality. He told me to say it. I said “I can do it”. In that moment, I thought that if a complete stranger saw something in me, than maybe it could be true.After I helped him through the checkout and he left, many different employees at the garden center asked me if I knew who that man was. I did not. They told me, “That’s Tim Misny!” Once I figured out “who” Tim Misny was, my confidence grew. It was a pivotal moment. One in which steered the rest of my life. His words stuck with me. I worked hard and obtained my Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice. I was hired by a local Law Enforcement Agency at the age of 21. I was sent to the Ohio State Highway Patrol Academy, which was an extremely tough place to be, to say the least. At the Academy, they try to break those who don’t have a determined spirit. On days I wanted to quit, I remembered Tim’s words. Maybe it was fate, maybe it was random chance.... I’ll never know But, Tim Misny helped me have the confidence and determination that was necessary to be where I’m at today. I’ve been a law enforcement officer for over 16 years. I’ve told this story to many of my coworkers.Tim, you’ll never understand how your words that spring day helped shape my future. Your words enabled me to provide a great life for myself and my family. I’m forever grateful.Mikeread more
Eric Evans
Eric Evans
21:02 04 Oct 20
Tim has represented me twice, once 30 years ago and again just recently. I was too young to fully appreciate his... expertise when he represented me the first time (as i was a minor who was the victim of an accident - he won for us, incidentally), but I'm old enough and wise enough now to really appreciate how truly great he is. First off, how many attorney's actually give you their cell phone number and actually answer? I would contend very, very few. Secondly, he has a street fighter mentality combined with a sharp legal intellect which makes you immediately think "I'm so glad this guy is on my side." I was really in a bind recently and Tim came through in spades - he is THE person I would call if I were in trouble or needed help - at a minimum he would know who I should talk to and direct me there (he knows his own limits, which is the key to a wise person) - at a maximum he would take on my fight himself and I'd have full confidence in his ability to deliver the best possible outcome for me - he fights for you like you're family - can't say it better than that.read more
Benjamin Firstenberg
Benjamin Firstenberg
19:32 28 Sep 20
I worked as an intern for Tim the summer of 2017 and it was an unbelievable experience both for my career and personal... development. He treats his employees with a level of respect, appreciation and honesty that I've truly not seen anywhere else that I've worked. We've stayed in touch these past few years and I'm still learning from Tim, whether it be the way he sees the world, his career advice or his commitment to his family. He's an honest man who treats people honorably.read more
David Shelton
David Shelton
01:13 30 Jun 20
I don't know much about Tim the lawyer, but I do know about Tim the man. Tim the man befriended me as a youth and gave... me the motivation to excel in school. Tim the man wrote the letter that got me into college and got me a helpful scholarship. Tim the man gave me an internship while in college. Tim the man has been a friend to me for over ten years. He makes himself available day or night whether I need advice or just want to talk about the day. There a lot of stigmas about attorneys (and they are earned) but Tim Misny bucks the stereotype. And if Tim the lawyer is half a good as Tim the man, he will live up to his word, and make them pay.read more
Mike Mercer
Mike Mercer
00:16 17 Jan 20
WOW! It is the only way to describe the tremendous experience I was afforded, when I contacted and then retained Tim... Misny, to handle a case for me. I had been injured in an automobile accident and needed help and direction, Tim and his staff provided both.The personal attention and clarity of the matter and specifics, gave me a state of comfort and satisfaction that I could have found nowhere else! I will be forever grateful to have Tim Misny as my attorney and my friend!I am a businessman in the Greater Cleveland area and have directed various members of my staffs as well as personal friends to Tim for solutions to their personal injury case needs. All my referrals have been more than pleased with the service and personal treatment they have received from Tim and his staff.I strongly recommend Tim Misny and his associates should you ever need the finest legal services available in Ohio! Trust is his number one priority, trust in knowing that you will be his client second, his friend first!read more
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The Law Offices of Tim Misny

Cleveland Office
3100 E. 45th St.
Suite 444
Cleveland OH 44127
Mailing Address:
Interstate Square I
4230 Chillicothe Rd. Ste 200
Willoughby, Ohio 44094

Disclaimer: All lawsuits are different and the Law Offices of Tim Misny make no representation or promise that it can obtain the same results in other legal matters. Nothing in this webpage constitutes a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of any future legal matter.