All businesses have liability risks, from the air conditioned office complex to the construction worksite. Today’s world is one in which it is very easy to sue businesses for large sums of money over seemingly trivial events. What does this mean? Just one unfortunate moment could possibly bankrupt your small business. Let’s look at three examples.
1. A web design business has a very busy month and, during those extra-long days, the housekeeping gets a bit sloppy. Files and packages begin to pile up in the hallways, waiting to be put away when things slow down. A guest visits the office and trips over the corner of box, injuring himself on the way down. The web design business is responsible for paying his medical expenses and lost wages during recovery, along with the cost of hiring a lawyer if the guest decides to sue.
2. A retail store is run by a small staff that custom makes baby products. One day, a mother comes in complaining that a toy she bought there made her baby sick and accuses the business of using unsafe materials. She sues for damages and the lawsuit not only requires the business to pay a large court settlement, but also results in a significant drop in business.
3. A new restaurant hires a photographer to take pictures for an advertising campaign. Meanwhile, the kitchen staff is busy preparing for a grand opening party. A pastry chef wheels a cart of treats to the front of the dining room, trips over a cord and accidentally knocks down thousands of dollars’ worth of camera equipment. The photographer claims that not only does he want the money to replace his equipment, but he also wants money for the business he will lose during the time it takes for the replacements to arrive.
In all of these situations, commercial liability insurance could’ve helped ease the burden of financial loss. Ask your agent which types of liability coverage are right for the unique needs of your business.
Get the coverage you need. Call Allen Harmon Insurance at (269) 441-5164 for more information on Battle Creek business insurance.