Time to check in on your personal insurance coverage. Graduation parties and summer holiday celebrations are here and that means our backyards are taking center stage. As you uncover the grills, hang the banners, and spruce up the patio furniture, remember to polish up your homeowners policy. Not to be a party pooper but accidents happens so make sure your insurance is adequate to protect you from mishaps that might arise.
- Unexpected Slips, Trips, And Falls– Even the most well-manicured yard has little danger zones that might catch a guest unaware. Uneven surfaces, gaps in pool surrounds and dimly lit walkways can cause a guest to trip and fall. Your homeowner’s policy will cover legal and medical bills that may arise, but depending on your assets, ask your agent about an umbrella policy as it offers higher levels of protection in the case of a lawsuit.
- Libation Liability. It is the hope of any host that partygoers will have fun and drink responsibly, but alcohol continues to be one of the biggest liabilities for a host. Be aware that as a host, you might be held responsible if a guest who has been drinking at your event drives and gets in an accident on the way home. Offer non-alcoholic beverages and if you see a guest has imbibed a bit too much please arrange for them to get home safely. For added protection, ask your agent about adding specific coverage for liquor liability for your event.
- Open Flames. Grilling burgers on the BBQ, enjoying a beverage by the firepit, and celebrating with sparklers means open flames are often a part of any backyard party. If a party guest is injured by a fire, a homeowner must ensure they have enough converge to pay not only for medical bills but any legal bills that might arise.
Chances are your backyard bash will go off without a hitch, but take precautions to protect not only your guests but yourself from any unexpected celebration snafus.
The team at Elliott, Powell, Baden, and Baker is here to help you find the right coverage for your backyard celebrations this summer.
