Accidental Death Insurance
An extra layer of financial protection if the worst happens in an instant
Anyone who wants an added layer of protection on top of their core coverage.
What is accidental death insurance?
Accidental death insurance (also called accidental death and dismemberment, or AD&D) pays a benefit to your beneficiaries if you die as the direct result of a covered accident — such as a car crash, fall, or other qualifying sudden event. It's not a replacement for life insurance, but it can be a valuable, affordable supplement that provides additional financial support for your family at the moment they're least prepared. Think of it as a safety net on top of a safety net.
How it works
You select a coverage amount. If you die as the result of a covered accidental event within the policy's definition — generally a sudden, unexpected incident that is the direct cause of death, independent of illness or natural causes — the carrier pays the benefit to your beneficiaries. Some policies also pay partial benefits for covered injuries such as loss of limb or vision (the "dismemberment" component). Coverage is typically simpler to obtain than life insurance and premiums are often lower because it only covers accidental causes.
What Accidental Death Insurance offers
- Affordable premiums relative to coverage amount
- No medical exam required in many cases
- Pays on top of any existing life insurance benefit
- Benefit paid by the carrier directly to named beneficiaries
- Some policies include a dismemberment benefit for qualifying injuries
- Provides additional peace of mind for high-risk occupations or lifestyles
Benefits vary by carrier, product type, and state of issue. Coverage is subject to underwriting and approval. Features listed are representative and may not be available on all products.
Ready to see what Accidental Death Insurance costs for you?
Because Sahlman is independent, we shop multiple national life insurance carriers to find the right fit for your situation. A quote takes minutes and comes with zero commitment.
Accidental Death Insurance — frequently asked
Does accidental death insurance replace life insurance?
No — and this is important. Accidental death insurance only pays if your death results from a covered accident. It does not pay for death caused by illness, natural causes, or other non-accidental events. It's a supplement to life insurance, not a substitute — a common approach is to put primary life insurance coverage in place first.
What counts as a "covered accident"?
Definitions vary by carrier and policy, but covered accidents generally include vehicle accidents, falls, drowning, and certain other sudden, unintended events. Exclusions typically include death caused by illness, intoxication, self-inflicted injury, or certain high-risk activities. Your agent will walk you through the specific terms before you apply.
Who is accidental death insurance a good fit for?
It's well-suited for people who want supplemental protection at an affordable price, those in higher-risk occupations, or individuals who may not qualify for traditional life insurance at preferred rates. It's also commonly added to an existing coverage portfolio to increase total benefit for accidental events.
How do I know if I already have accidental death coverage?
It's sometimes included as a rider on a life insurance policy or through an employer's group benefit plan. Review your existing policies or ask your agent to audit your current coverage so you don't duplicate or leave gaps.
Explore other ways we protect families
Every family's situation is different. Browse the other coverage options Sahlman Insurance Group offers.
Educational content only. This page provides general information about accidental death insurance and is not financial, tax, or legal advice. All products are subject to underwriting and approval. Coverage availability, features, and premiums vary by state and carrier. Carrier names referenced on this site are representative; the Sahlman Insurance Group carrier lineup is subject to change. Coverage is not guaranteed until an application is approved. Individual results vary.
Get a straight answer on Accidental Death Insurance
A licensed Sahlman agent will shop multiple national life insurance carriers and give you a clear, no-pressure recommendation — free, and on your schedule.
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