by Sheena Smikle | February 1, 2025 | 10,325 views

After the a recent plane crash in Washington, DC and then Philadelphia, most people are reviewing their life insurance policy for a little-known payout that provides extra financial protection.

While regular life insurance covers most causes of death, there’s an extra rider that provides additional coverage specifically for passengers on public transportation—including commercial airlines.

It's called the Common Carrier Accidental Death Benefit Rider—and it could mean double or even triple the payout for your loved ones.

But is it worth having? Let’s break it down.

What Is a Common Carrier Accidental Death Benefit Rider?

A Common Carrier Accidental Death Benefit Rider is an add-on to a life insurance policy that provides extra money to beneficiaries if the insured person dies in an accident while traveling on a public transportation service, such as:

• Passenger airplanes (commercial airlines)

• Buses, trains, and subways

• Cruise ships and ferries

If someone has this rider and dies in a commercial plane crash, their family receives an extra payout on top of their life insurance benefit.

For example:

If a policyholder has $500,000 in life insurance and their policy includes a 2x common carrier accidental death benefit, their family could receive $1 million if they die in a plane crash.

This rider is especially useful for frequent travelers—business professionals, international workers, or anyone who flies often.

What Does an Accidental Death Benefit Rider Cover?

A Common Carrier Accidental Death Benefit Rider covers deaths that occur while traveling on public transportation.

• If a commercial airline crashes, this benefit pays out.

• If a train derails and causes fatalities, it applies.

• If a bus accident results in loss of life, it is covered.

What’s NOT Covered?

• It does NOT cover accidents that happen:

• In a private plane (only commercial airlines count).

• Due to risky activities (skydiving, personal pilot flights).

• From medical conditions (a heart attack mid-flight wouldn't count).

If the death is directly caused by the accident and it happens while using public transportation, then this benefit pays out. Need a policy? Start here>>

Is It Worth Having Accidental Death Insurance?

Now that we know what it covers, let’s talk about whether it’s worth having.

Here’s when a Common Carrier Accidental Death Benefit Rider makes sense:

• If you travel frequently by plane – Business travelers, remote workers, or frequent flyers should consider it.

• If your family relies on your income – This benefit can double or triple the payout to your loved ones.

• If you want added financial security – It’s low-cost but high-value, making it an easy safety net.

However, if you rarely travel on public transportation, this rider may not be necessary.

The good news? It’s usually affordable —often costing just a few dollars per month.

How Does an Accidental Death Benefit Work in a Plane Crash?

If a policyholder has this rider and is involved in a fatal plane crash, here’s what happens:

• The insurance company verifies the death was due to the airline accident.

• The accident must be ruled unintentional (not suicide, hijacking involvement, or negligence).

• The beneficiary receives the full benefit amount (which can be double or triple the original policy).

Example Scenario:

Let’s say John, a frequent business traveler, has a $250,000 life insurance policy with a Common Carrier Accidental Death Rider (2x payout).

If John tragically dies in a commercial airline crash, his family would receive $500,000 instead of $250,000.

This can be life-changing for families, especially when dealing with unexpected loss.

Final Thoughts: Should You Add a Common Carrier Rider To Your Life Insurance?

If you or a loved one frequently travel on commercial airlines, this rider is a smart, low-cost way to increase financial protection.

• Covers commercial airline crashes & public transportation accidents

• Provides extra financial security for your family

• Pays double or triple your policy amount in covered accidents

For most people, the small extra cost is worth the peace of mind.

✈️ If you fly often, consider adding this rider to your life insurance policy today.