What Is Accidental Term Life Insurance?

Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance is a type of life insurance that pays out benefits only if the insured person dies or suffers specific serious injuries due to a covered accident. It can be purchased as a standalone policy or added to a standard life policy as a rider.

Understanding AD&D Coverage

The accidents and injuries that AD&D coverage can pay out for will be specified in the policy. Accidents covered by AD&D insurance can include:

It is important to note that AD&D policies do not typically cover death or injury caused by high-risk activities. However, it may be possible to add an AD&D rider to a standard life insurance policy to increase the benefit if the insured person dies from a covered accident.

AD&D vs. ADB Life Insurance Policies

Both AD&D and ADB life insurance policies only pay out in the case of accidents. The main difference between the two is that an ADB policy may only pay out for a fatal accident, while AD&D policies can also pay out for accidental dismemberment and certain accidental injuries.

Standalone AD&D Policies

Standalone AD&D policies are more typical for individuals who do not qualify for standard life insurance but want some level of coverage, and they are not available from all insurers.

Adding an AD&D Rider to a Standard Life Insurance Policy

If you already have life insurance and want coverage in case of accidental serious injury, it may make sense to add an AD&D rider onto your standard life insurance policy. This can be more affordable than purchasing a standalone AD&D policy.

Conclusion

Accidental term life insurance can be a good option for individuals who have concerns about covering the costs of a serious accidental injury. However, it is important to understand the limitations of AD&D coverage and to compare rates and coverage options to determine what is best for your needs and budget.