What sorts of incidents are covered by liquor liability policies?
Liquor liability policies can cover a variety of incidents. Depending on the specific terms, conditions and exclusions of a policy, the policy might cover lawsuits related to:
- Common “slip and fall” accidents that involve intoxicated customers
- Sexual assaults perpetrated by an intoxicated customer
- Non-sexual assaults by one intoxicated customer
- Public fights that involve multiple intoxicated customers
- DUI accidents caused by intoxicated customers after leaving
- Alcohol poisoning that sends intoxicated customers to the emergency room
An insurance agent who specializes in liquor liability policies can help businesses review specifically what a particular policy covers.
Do general liability policies cover incidents that involve intoxicated customers?
General liability insurance generally isn’t a substitute for liquor liability. While general liability typically includes coverage for common “slip and fall” accidents, it often excludes when the injured party is intoxicated. General liability also normally doesn’t protect against many of the other incidents that liquor liability might cover (e.g. assaults, fights, DUI accidents, etc.).
When general liability and liquor liability coverages are both needed, they might be obtained together through a commercial package policy. Commercial package policies combine multiple insurance coverages together for convenience and savings.
How much are the premiums charged for liquor liability policies?
Liquor liability premiums are based on many factors, and thus vary substantially. A few of the details that impact rates are a business’ yearly sales, the types of alcohol served, and whether any insurance claims have recently been filed.
For an accurate understanding of how much liquor liability coverage will cost, businesses should consult an independent insurance agent. Independent agents aren’t sponsored by any one insurance company, and can thus fairly compare policies offered by different companies. It’s easy to check both coverages and rates with an independent agent’s help.
How can Massachusetts businesses get liquor liability insurance?
If you need help procuring liquor liability insurance, contact the independent insurance agents at Norwood Insurance Agency. Our Massachusetts agents have worked with stores, restaurants, bars, and many other businesses, and we have the expertise to help you. We’ll show you several liquor liability policy options, and then work with you to select which one best suits your business’ particular needs.