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In a recent post, we covered what’s usually included the property protection section of your home owners insurance policy. Knowing what is and is not covered is important for all home owners, but especially those purchasing a home for the first time.

In this post, we’ll talk about the liability protection part of your policy. If someone is injured on your property or if their property is damaged on your property, you may be held liable. This could be very expensive if you have to pay completely out of pocket, especially in the event of medical expenses or a lawsuit.

Bobbie Sage, personal insurance guide for About.com, says there are two parts to liability protection.

Personal liability usually provides personal liability coverage against a claim or lawsuit that happens as a result of someone being injured or their property being damaged by an accident on your property. This protects you and all family members who live with you, but it does not protect you against auto- and business-related accidents.

Medical payments include coverage to pay for medical expenses for someone who is accidentally injured on your property, regardless of whose fault it is. However, medical expense payments do not apply to your injuries or the injuries of family members who live with you. They also don’t cover activities related to your at-home business.

Remember, all policies have exclusions. Most home owners insurance policies do not cover injuries to animals, damage to motor vehicles, aircraft and parts. Read your policy carefully and ask your agent if you have any questions.

About MAX: Don’t get left out in the cold if an accident happens at your home or on your property. Now is a great time to be sure your liability insurance is adequate. Accidents happen, so make sure you’re protected. We also offer home, farm, auto, renters, and other personal lines to help protect the members of the faith-based community. Our friendly, experienced agents can help answer all your questions about insurance. Visit www.faithbasedinsurance.com/contact-us, email wholeness@faithbasedinsurance.com or call us toll-free at (877) 736-5681.

Source: Sage, Bobbie. Understanding Your Home Owners Insurance Policy. About.com. Retrieved January 27, 2012, from http://personalinsure.about.com/cs/homeowners/a/aa013004a.htm.