Umbrella Policy

A liability policy that provides an additional layer of coverage above the limits of underlying primary policies such as general liability, auto liability, and employers liability. Unlike excess policies, umbrella policies may also broaden coverage by responding to claims that fall outside the scope of underlying policies, subject to a self-insured retention. Law firms with significant foot traffic, multiple office locations, or firm-owned vehicles often carry umbrella policies to protect against catastrophic general liability claims. Umbrella policies typically do not sit above professional liability or malpractice coverage, which requires a separate excess professional liability policy.