Fact Sheet on Foster Parent Liability Insurance
Foster parenting creates a host of liability issues based on the foster child's potential behavior. Without insurance to guard against these risks, foster parents may face personal exposure from claims and lawsuits.
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Liability Issues
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Foster parents can face a variety of claims, including personal injury and property damage claims from third-parties alleging negligent supervision of the foster child. Birth parents may also sue foster parents for alleged failure to provide appropriate supervision and medical care.
Potential Jury Awards
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Birth parents can win lawsuits against foster parents for negligent supervision of their children leading to serious injury or death. The Indiana Foster Care and Adoption Association (IFCAA) conducted a study finding jury awards ranged from $50,000 to $100,000.
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Sample Insurance Policy Coverage
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Terms and conditions of foster parent liability policies vary, but fosterparenting.com described a sample policy that covers personal injuries to third-parties as well as claims from birth parents alleging injury to the child or negligent supervision and care for the child.
Intentional Acts Not Covered
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The Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance points out that few liability policies, including foster parent policies, cover damages stemming from intentional acts. Intentional acts include punching, vandalism or sexual molestation.
Driving Negligence Not Covered
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Foster parent liability insurance policies, like other general liability policies, will typically not cover claims stemming from negligent operation of a motor vehicle.
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References
- Photo Credit way for parent with child - sign on pavement image by endostock from Fotolia.com
