Reinsurance and Catastrophes (Details 1) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Effects of reinsurance on premiums and benefits
Premiums written and contract deposits, Gross Amount	$ 1,191,123	$ 1,120,852	$ 1,093,937
Premiums written and contract deposits, Ceded to Other Companies	27,144	30,115	29,691
Premiums written and contract deposits, Assumed from Other Companies	3,676	3,456	3,481
Premiums written and contract deposits, Net Amount	1,167,655	1,094,193	1,067,727
Premiums and contract charges earned, Gross Amount	739,281	717,494	696,721
Premiums and contract charges earned, Ceded to Other Companies	27,276	29,990	29,634
Premiums and contract charges earned, Assumed from Other Companies	3,755	3,434	3,440
Premiums and contract charges earned, Net Amount	715,760	690,938	670,527
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Gross Amount	504,550	455,298	457,332
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Ceded to Other Companies	39,236	10,018	12,177
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Assumed from Other Companies	3,112	3,037	3,095
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Net Amount	$ 468,426	$ 448,317	$ 448,250