iQuanti: Purchasing a life insurance policy isn't always an easy decision. Even simpler policies can offer extra features and riders that might confuse you. But by doing the right research and comparing your options, you can find a policy with coverage that works for your needs.

Accidental death benefit riders are just one piece of the life insurance puzzle, but they can play an essential role for many people. Let's dig into the details of why you and your loved ones might need an accidental death benefit rider. 

Understanding accidental death benefit riders

An accidental death benefit rider is an added feature to your life insurance policy that will allow your beneficiaries to receive a higher life insurance payout if you, the policyholder, passes away in an unexpected accident. Some deaths that may be covered by this benefit include car crashes, drowning, and dying from a natural disaster. There are several types of life insurance plans that you can add an accidental death benefit rider onto, such as term and whole life insurance.

Remember not to confuse accidental death benefit rider with an accidental death benefit policy. Policies can be purchased standalone, whereas riders are additions to an already existing policy. 

Exclusions to an accidental death benefit rider

Accidental death benefit riders do not apply to unexpected deaths in certain situations, such as sickness, suicide, drug or alcohol overuse, and high-risk activities (like skydiving). Check with your life insurance provider to learn more about what an accidental death benefit rider covers, as they can provide more details that might help you better understand how this feature applies to your life insurance policy. 

Should I get an accidental death benefit rider? 

Accidental death benefit riders prove particularly useful for anyone working in a high-risk job, such as those operating heavy machinery. They can also provide financial security for people that drive often, whether they commute or drive a vehicle as their profession. But these are not the only situations where an accidental death benefit rider could be beneficial. Accidents are unexpected and can happen to anyone, so any life insurance policyholder and their loved ones could benefit from an accidental death rider. 

How can I purchase an accidental death benefit rider? 

You can typically purchase an accidental death benefit rider at any point while your life insurance policy is in force. Simply request that an accidental death benefit rider be added to your coverage. These riders usually don't require an additional medical exam, so the process for obtaining can be fairly simple and fast.

Make your insurance work for you 

Accidental death benefit riders can be an important addition to any life insurance policy. Not only should workers in high-risk positions purchase these riders, but the average life insurance customer can benefit from them as well. 

It's wise to understand how accidental death benefit riders can fit into your policy. This way, you'll know what you're paying for and can make a well-informed decision, whether you're purchasing your first life insurance plan or reexamining your life insurance coverage.