Supplemental Accident … Why do you need it?

Ahhhh … the big question … I have major medical … Why do I need an accident policy?

Well let’s start with the obvious.  You and I both know we can’t prevent EVERY accident.  But what we can do is try to protect ourselves, our family and our income. That’s right.  I said INCOME.   Especially if you are self-employed, you need to listen to this!

The National Safety Council says 1 in 9 Americans will receive medical attention for an injury annually — That’s nearly 34.3 MILLION people every year!  They also say that FALLS are the #1 cause of ALL accidental injuries in the US (that’s you mom & dad).   In addition, EVERY SECOND OF EVERY DAY, someone is disabled from an accidental injury.

Accidental injuries are sudden, unexpected and can happen anywhere at nearly any time.  They can cause unexpected medical bills for diagnosis and treatment, not to mention lots of pain, and may keep you from working.

Now if you have major medical, it may cover most of your expenses. But your likely to have out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and co-pays, plus medical appliances and transportation. Did you realize on nearly all major medical plans the ER visits go towards the deductible?  (ask your agent)  So if your plan is $500 deductible like most people (or higher)  and you have an accident, you are paying 100% of that bill.  I didn’t even know that till my father cut off half of his finger on Labor day. (that’s a whole nother story — yes he is banned from power tools now, LOL)

Accident plans are designed to protect “active” people. The benefits are paid directly to you in regardless of any other insurance you have.  So if you are in an accident, these plans are designed to help you take care of your out-of-pocket costs, OR since the money is paid directly to you … you can use the money to pay your electric bill, phone bill, gas, water … whatever you choose!!!  It is YOUR money.  Unlike major medical that is designed to pay the doctors and hospitals, these plans are designed to pay you.  Get it?    

Now how do they pay?  Good question.  Most of the plans are based on a schedule of benefits.  The key benefits are for emergency room and ambulance, inpatient hospital confinement and ICU, transportation and family lodging, follow-up doctor and physical therapy visits – specified injury benefits like for fractures, dislocation, burns, cuts, paralysis, etc.  Generally there are no lifetime maximums.  And they normally include accidental dismemberment and accidental death.  So for each benefit you qualify for, you get paid for … directly you to, to use as you choose.

Look at the example of Chris and see how the same thing can easily happen to you and your family.

One claim, and the accident policy would basically pay for itself in a year.  In my opinion, it is a no-brainer.

It is simplified underwriting – to qualify, just answer a few yes or no health questions. If you have major medical now, you can still add this at anytime.  It doesn’t matter what other coverage you have, and with who, this policy pays in addition to any other insurance.  Even if you have Medicare, you can get this plan.  The best thing, the rates are super affordable for most budgets, and it won’t increase just because you use it!

Any questions?   Ask your local agent, or as always call or write to me  Dee Dee @ 940-488-5036 allbrightbenefits@gmail.com

Source:  National Safety Council, Injury Facts, 2010 Editions.  These facts represent the U.S. population, are provided for information only and do not imply coverage under the policy or endorsement of the company or policy by the National Safety Council.

Policies and riders may vary by state.  Policy may not be available in all states.