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Related Party Transactions (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
Dec. 31, 2010
Equity ownership percentage of director of parent 10.00%    
Direct premiums written $ 1,955,667,000 $ 1,725,393,000 $ 1,634,415,000
Premiums paid to Rue Insurance for insurance coverage 200,000 200,000 300,000
Contributions to the Selective Group Foundation 400,000 400,000 400,000
Related Party Insurance Agency [Member]
      
Direct premiums written 7,700,000 7,800,000 7,200,000
Commissions paid to Rue Insurance $ 1,300,000 $ 1,200,000 $ 1,300,000