What is Double Indemnity? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

Double indemnity refers to a provision in a life insurance policy that provides an additional payment, typically equal to the policy's face value, in the event of an accidental death. This means that if the insured person dies due to a specified accident, the beneficiaries receive double the death benefit. This provision is also known as an accidental death benefit.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A policyholder dies in a car accident. If their life insurance policy includes a double indemnity provision, the beneficiaries will receive double the face amount of the policy.

(hypothetical example) Example 2: A person dies while participating in a dangerous sport, and their policy has exclusions for such activities. In this case, the double indemnity benefit may not apply.

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Double Indemnity Regulations
California Commonly includes double indemnity provisions in standard policies.
New York Requires clear disclosure of double indemnity clauses in policies.
Texas Policies may have specific exclusions that limit double indemnity benefits.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Accidental death benefit A payment made to beneficiaries if the insured dies due to an accident. Double indemnity specifically doubles the payout amount.
Life insurance A policy that pays out a sum upon the insured's death. Double indemnity is an additional feature within life insurance policies.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you have a life insurance policy with a double indemnity clause and need to file a claim, gather all necessary documentation, including the death certificate and policy details. Consider using US Legal Forms for templates to assist with your claim. If your situation is complex or unclear, seeking professional legal assistance may be beneficial.

Quick facts

  • Typical additional payment: Equal to the face amount of the policy.
  • Jurisdiction: Varies by state; check local regulations.
  • Common exclusions: Deaths from illegal activities or risky behaviors.

Key takeaways