Global Terrorism Insurance
If we as a nation and the planet have learned anything over the last 50 years, it’s that life is unpredictable on a global scale.
Corporate principals know to prepare for situations that have happened before and may happen again, but obtaining insurance coverage that helps protect against intentional acts of terrorism has only recently become practical.
What Is Global Terrorism Insurance?
Before 9/11, terrorism coverage was typically included in standard insurance policies. After the attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and US commercial airlines, losses incurred by insurance companies caused policies, including terrorism coverage, to become unaffordable, if not unattainable.
The US Congress quickly passed the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA) in 2002 to ensure adequate resources would be available for businesses to cover losses and rebuild when directly affected by a terrorist attack.
TRIA mandates that all United States casualty insurers offer terrorism coverage, with the federal government sharing the costs of these losses.
Originally created as a temporary three-year program, TRIA has been renewed repeatedly and is currently set to expire in 2027.
Protect Your Business
Terrorism risk insurance is sold separately as an endorsement or rider added to your regular business policy.
It’s crucial for business owners and corporate principals to understand that a standard commercial insurance policy does not cover damages caused by terrorism.
What Does a Terrorism Policy Cover?
The Secretary of the Treasury defines a terrorist act as violence or actions (or threats of action) that are dangerous to people, property, or infrastructure made in an effort to persuade or coerce people and influence policies.
If such an act occurs, and losses exceed $5 million, then the Secretary of the Treasury certifies the act under the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA). Federal reimbursement may be able to cover these insurance claims when an action is certified as terrorism, helping maintain economic stability after an attack.
Property casualty insurance can be provided for terrorism risks involved with daily business functions. Terrorism insurance covers property, liability, and financial losses from claims due to acts of terrorism.
Global coverage responds to foreign business affairs, which may be exposed to labor and political risks. Coverage can include:
- War and terrorism (TRIA) liability, property and financial
- Strike risk and political risk
Does a Business Insurance Policy Include Terrorism Insurance?
A business insurance policy does not include terrorism insurance, but your coverage can be extended to protect you in case of a terrorist attack. Terrorism insurance can be a standalone policy or added to an existing insurance policy. The location of your business, the value of your company, assets and property as well as other factors can determine whether your company would benefit from this insurance plan.
Please speak with one of our agents to discuss whether a terrorism insurance plan is right for you.
Protecting Your Assets
It is nearly impossible to predict terrorist attacks. Some contributing knowledge, such as previous events or social media coverage can help us gather information and prepare. If your business is located in a higher-risk area, such as near an airport or other location, then insurance coverage might be recommended as a precaution. Even if your property does not sustain damage, your business functions may be put on hold. In such cases, your insurance policy may cover any financial losses incurred.
If your assets are exposed to or threatened by terrorism, we can provide information and insurance policy options to minimize your risks and maximize your recovery efforts in the event of a terrorist attack.
As we go about our daily lives, doing business as usual, government entities worldwide are working hard to counter terrorist threats around the clock. However, as we all know, these international and domestic threats are unpredictable, and their consequences can be devastating.
Purchasing insurance coverage for an event, such as a terrorist attack, is something we all wish wasn’t necessary, and it’s easy to put out of our minds, but in today’s political climate, both here and overseas, it may be a wise choice.
Terrorism Insurance in Southern California
Gallant Risk & Insurance Services, LLC., is located in Corona, California, and offers terrorism insurance protection as well as other global coverage for companies involved in foreign business affairs, which may expose them to labor and political risks.
Call (951) 368-0700 to reach our Corona, California, insurance office and learn more about global terrorism insurance and customized coverage to protect your business assets from the consequences of a terrorist attack.