Summer Parties, Liability, and Insurance

Hosting a cookout is a fantastic way to spend time and have fun with family and friends. While planning, preparing, and firing up the grill, it is very important to consider your insurance.

Consider things like exposure, risk, and liability when planning your summer festivities. Your homeowner’s insurance may cover things like injuries, grill fires, damage to your property, and possibly a guest getting an OVI/ DUI after leaving the party (someone can sue you if they got intoxicated at your party and got involved in an accident/ giving an OVI/DUI).

Your insurance policy may cover some incidents, however, thinking ahead can eliminate potential hazards. These considerations will help keep you, your family, and your friends remain safe.

• Advise your insurance agent/ insurance carrier of things like: pools, swings, trampolines, and/or any other things that are considered “high risk”.
• Be precautious and help eliminate any accidents. Keep your walkways clear (consider “watch your step” signs), ensure that you have proper lighting for dark areas, and keep your eyes on your pets. Though your pet may be friendly, something as simple as a loud sound can make them react.
• If you are serving alcohol, there is a greater chance of something going wrong. Make sure you are serving enough food and consider stopping the serving of alcohol before the end of the party. Having plenty of coffee and water is also a good idea. In some states, a homeowner can be sued if a drunk guest leaves the party and is involved in an accident.

Renters have the same responsibility as homeowners–to a certain degree. While renters may not be responsible for the building and its grounds, renters are responsible for things that happen inside their home. If you don’t have renter’s insurance and you are hosting parties, it is a good idea to start looking into it. Renters insurance is inexpensive and can save you a lot down the road.

If you are hosting an event like a wedding, with tents and caterers, looking into event insurance is a good idea. Event insurance, also known as event liability insurance protects you against lawsuits and claims related to property damage of the rented premises and bodily injury of others. Coverage is primary for both you and the venue. This means if you have a covered claim your Private Event Insurance policy will pay first before any other insurance you may have.

You also have the option of purchasing an umbrella policy. An umbrella insurance policy is the type of policy designed to protect you from major claims and lawsuits. It’s extra liability insurance that covers your home and auto and provides coverage for claims that may be excluded by other liability policies.

If you take reasonable steps to keep your property free of hazards, there’s no reason to be discouraged from inviting friends, neighbors, and family to your home for some summertime fun. Become a smart host to enjoy safe celebrations all summer long. Contact one of our agents- we are happy to help!