CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Net income	$ 78,291	$ 99,021
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in net unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of income tax: (2013 - $(76,295); 2012 - $5,308)	(141,691)	9,856
Reclassification adjustment for investment amounts included in net income, net of income tax: (2013 - $(2,704); 2012 - $(449))	(5,022)	(833)
Change in net unrealized gains (losses) relating to other-than-temporary impaired investments for which a portion has been recognized in earnings, net of income tax: (2013 - $4,219; 2012 - $1,571)	7,837	2,917
Change in accumulated (loss) gain - derivatives, net of income tax: (2013 - $1,543; 2012 - $2,872)	2,866	5,333
Reclassification adjustment for derivative amounts included in net income, net of income tax: (2013 - $174; 2012 - $235)	323	438
Change in postretirement benefits liability adjustment, net of income tax: (2013 - $(922); 2012 - $(728))	(1,712)	(1,352)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(137,399)	16,359
Comprehensive income (loss)	(59,108)	115,380
Total comprehensive income attributable to Protective Life Corporation	$ (59,108)	$ 115,380