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Sexual Abuse & Molestation (SAM) Insurance

Sexual Abuse and Molestation InsuranceSexual abuse and molestation or SAM insurance is essential for healthcare, education and senior living facilities, given the extent of this abuse in these industries revealed by recent reports.

Sexual Abuse & Molestation Insurance Coverage

Our Sexual Abuse and Molestation Insurance may include:

  • Physical Abuse Coverage Available by Endorsement: Extends the SAM policy to include coverage for claims of physical abuse in addition to sexual abuse. 
  • Coverage Extends to Employees (Part-Time, Seasonal, Temporary) and Volunteers. This mitigates gaps in coverage that might otherwise expose the organization to risks.
  • Limits and Deductible Apply Per Victim: Ensuring that each individual claim is treated separately, offering clarity and adequate financial protection in cases involving multiple victims.
  • Prior Acts Coverage Available:
    Provides coverage for incidents that occurred before the policy's effective date, provided the insured was unaware of the incident at the time of policy inception.
  • Extended Reporting Period is Available: for organizations closing operations, changing insurers, or facing long-tail claims, such as those arising years after the alleged abuse.
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What is sexual abuse and molestation (SAM) insurance?

Sexual Abuse and Molestation Insurance provides coverage for organizations against claims arising from alleged sexual misconduct or molestation by an employee or other representative of the organization. Given the sensitive nature of such allegations, this insurance is crucial to help shield organizations from potential legal, financial, and reputational damages.

What does SAM insurance cover?

Sexual Abuse and Molestation Insurance typically covers:

  1. Defense Costs: The costs associated with defending against allegations, whether they proceed to court or are settled outside of it.
  2. Settlements: Financial settlements that might arise from claims related to abuse or molestation.
  3. Other Court-related Expenses: This could include judgments, legal fees, and other related costs.
  4. Medical Expenses: Some policies might offer coverage for the medical expenses of the victim.

What is excluded?

While specifics can vary by policy, exclusions often include:

  1. Known Acts: If the institution was aware of the misconduct at the time the policy was purchased and did not disclose it, the claim might be excluded.
  2. Intentional Acts: Insurance doesn’t typically cover the deliberate acts of the individual perpetrator, although it might cover the organization’s liability arising from the act.
  3. Contractual Liabilities: Liabilities that arise out of a contract might be excluded unless covered under another policy provision.
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Who needs sexual abuse and molestation insurance?

Any organization that works closely with vulnerable populations or is in a position where allegations of misconduct could arise should consider this insurance. This includes:

  1. Hospitals and Healthcare Providers.
  2. Assisted living facilitiesand other senior living facilities
  3. Halfway houses and host homes.
  4. Home healthcare providers and home health care.
  5. Nursing care, residential care and skilled nursing facilities.
  6. Fostering agencies and foster care providers
  7. Child Care Centers and adult day care centers.
  8. Intellectual and developmental disability centers
  9. Educational Institutions and Organizations and
  10. Any other organization that works with vulnerable people.
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How much is sexual abuse and molestation insurance?

The cost of SAM insurance varies based on several factors:

  1. Type and Size of the Organization: Larger organizations with more employees might face higher premiums.
  2. Coverage Limits: Higher limits of liability will typically result in higher premiums.
  3. Deductible Amount: Policies with higher deductibles may have lower premiums.
  4. Location and Jurisdiction: Some regions might have higher claim frequencies or higher potential settlement amounts, affecting the premium.
  5. Previous Claims History: Organizations with a history of claims might face higher premiums.

It’s essential to get quotes from multiple insurers to understand the potential costs specific to your organization. Westwood Insurance Group typically does this as part of our service, comparing coverage and prices to find the best suited policy for you at the best price.

Doesn’t professional liability insurance cover sexual abuse claims?

Yes, Professional Liability insurance usually contains SAM coverage, however sub-limits are often inadequate. While some carriers will allow sub-limits up to $1,000,000 per incident and $1,000,000 aggregate, many SAM sub-limits are $100,000 per claim and $300,000 aggregate or even less. Defense costs for a sexual abuse claim will quickly eat up most of the $100,000 leaving very little to settle any successful claim against you.

For this reason, any organization that provides services for vulnerable members of the public, including educational institutions are advised to ensure they have realistic insurance coverage for sexual abuse and molestation claims. If you cannot get adequate sub-limits on your professional liability policy, then stand-alone SAM insurance is advisable.

How do I get SAM Insurance?

  1. Consult a Broker or Agent: An experienced insurance broker like Westwood Insurance Group can guide you through the process, helping you understand your risks and potential coverage needs.
  2. Evaluate Your Risks: Before approaching insurers, have a clear understanding of your organization’s activities, the number of people you serve, and potential vulnerabilities.
  3. Compare Multiple Quotes: Different insurers might offer varying coverage limits, exclusions, and premiums. Ensure you understand the differences and compare them before making a decision. Your agent and broker will typically do this for you.
  4. Implement Safety Measures: Implementing safety and training protocols can potentially lower your risk profile and subsequently your premiums.
  5. Regularly Review Your Policy: As your organization grows or changes, your insurance needs might change as well. Ensure your coverage remains adequate by reviewing it regularly.

In conclusion, given the gravity and sensitivity of abuse and molestation allegations, it’s crucial for organizations to be adequately insured. Being proactive in understanding and obtaining the right coverage can protect against substantial legal, financial, and reputational damages.

Speak with an Insurance Professional

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Chris Worley

Chris specializes in sourcing the most suitable Sexual Abuse & Molestation (SAM) insurance at the best price. You can call him or fill out the form and he will get your message directly.

Call 216-471-7531 or
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