Are you a little hazy about what protection is offered by the liability portion of your Idaho homeowners insurance policy? You are not alone; many people purchase homeowners’ insurance because of the property and possessions coverage and are surprised to learn about the benefits that come with liability insurance.

The liability portion of your home insurance policy may compensate you for the cost of lawsuits filed by a third party who is injured or suffers harm on your property or is harmed because of you or a member of your household, or even your family pet. It’s not difficult to imagine scenarios that might cause you to make a liability claim. A guest at a dinner party you host might suffer an allergic reaction to food you serve and need emergency treatment, or your dog might run into the street and cause a traffic accident.

These days people are quick to take disputes to court, and any homeowner is at risk of being sued. Defending a lawsuit – whether or not damages are awarded – is expensive and without liability insurance in place a family’s savings and other assets could be threatened.

Some factors, such as pet ownership or having a swimming pool, are likely to increase the risk of someone visiting your home being injured. Read the terms of your Idaho homeowners insurance policy to check what is included and excluded, and talk to your agent or insurer if you are uncertain whether you have adequate liability coverage.

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