Accidental Death Benefit (ADB)
Accidental death coverage pays a benefit if you die as the result of a covered accident, such as a car crash or a fall. It doesn't pay for death from illness or natural causes. It can be a policy of its own, often with few or no health questions, or a rider that adds an extra amount to a life insurance policy.
What is accidental death coverage?
It's a narrow kind of coverage: it pays only when death is caused by an accident the policy covers, usually within a set time after the accident. Because illness isn't covered, it costs less than life insurance, and many plans accept applicants without health questions.
Every policy lists what it covers and what it excludes. Common exclusions include illness, drug or alcohol use, self-inflicted injury, war and some high-risk activities. Some versions also pay part of the benefit for serious injuries, such as the loss of a limb or of sight.
Who it is for
- People who can't get traditional life insurance right now because of their health.
- Workers who drive a lot or have physically demanding jobs.
- Anyone who wants extra coverage on top of a life policy at a low cost.
- Families who want something in place while a larger application is reviewed.
What it helps cover
If a covered accident causes death, the benefit is paid to your beneficiaries for whatever they need: funeral costs, bills, debts or lost income. It works best alongside life insurance, not in place of it, because most deaths aren't accidents.
Why work with an independent agency
Accidental death plans differ in what they cover, how they define an accident, the time limits they set and whether they pay for injuries. We compare them in plain words, tell you where a life policy would serve you better, and suggest accidental coverage only where it fits. The carrier makes the final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is accidental death coverage the same as life insurance?
No. Life insurance pays for death from almost any cause after the first policy years; accidental death coverage pays only for covered accidents. Most families need life insurance first.
Do I need to answer health questions?
Many accidental death plans ask none, or very few, because illness isn't covered. A rider added to a life policy follows that policy's application.
What isn't covered?
Death from illness or natural causes, and the exclusions listed in the policy, which commonly include drug or alcohol use, self-inflicted injury and war. We'll go through the list for the plan you're considering.
Related Coverage
Term Life Insurance
Level protection for a set number of years, suited to income and mortgage cover.
Learn moreFinal Expense Insurance
Smaller, simplified whole life coverage that pays quickly so a funeral and final bills are covered.
Learn moreMortgage Protection Insurance
Term coverage sized to the mortgage so the family keeps the house.
Learn moreTalk through accidental death coverage with a licensed agent.
No obligation: clear answers, real monthly amounts from more than one carrier, and a recommendation that fits your family and budget.
Product availability, features, riders and any carrier guarantees vary by carrier, product and state, and are subject to the carrier's underwriting and approval. This page explains the product and is not an offer of coverage.