Slip and fall insurance
As a small business owner, you're responsible for what happens on your property, including slip and fall accidents. These incidents can lead to costly lawsuits, downtime, and even damage to your company's reputation. That's where having the right insurance steps in. Progressive Commercial can keep your business on its feet with the right slip and fall liability protection.
What is slip and fall insurance?
Slip and fall coverage isn't technically a type of insurance. It's included in broader business accident offerings like a business owners policy (BOP), general liability, or workers' compensation.
The liability coverage on a BOP or general liability policy can cover third-party injuries, such as customer slip and falls, while workers' comp protects employees who get hurt on the job.
How does slip and fall insurance coverage work?
If someone is hurt in a workplace slip and fall, you can make a claim on your workers' comp, BOP, or general liability policy, depending on whether the injured person was an employee or non-employee. Typically, these types of insurance would cover:
- Medical expenses: Helps pay the ambulance, doctor, and hospital bills, along with physical therapy and other costs associated with the injury.
- Legal fees: If you're sued because of the slip and fall accident, your liability coverage can cover lawyers, court costs, settlements, and judgments.
A BOP or general liability policy can also cover damage to someone else's property, typically paying to repair or replace what was broken in a slip and fall.
Types of business insurance for accidents
Accidents happen, so it's important to be prepared with the right type of slip and fall coverage. Progressive Commercial can help you assess your risk and determine the best business insurance in case of accidents and injuries.
General liability for third-party injuries
General liability is a type of business injury insurance that covers various claims made by people outside of your company. This coverage isn't required by law, but it's highly recommended, especially if customers or vendors visit your workplace or job site.
Suppose a visitor breaks their arm while walking through your warehouse. A general liability policy can cover the cost of medical bills and legal fees if they file a lawsuit.
Insurance for property damage and loss
Besides the personal injury coverage you need when someone is hurt at your workplace, you should also consider damage to your property. That's where commercial property insurance comes in.
Let's say someone at your business falls into a glass partition. Commercial property insurance can pay to replace the damaged structure. It may also cover the costs of fixing issues that can lead to an accident, such as a leaky pipe or loose floor tiles.
Combined liability and property coverage
Progressive Commercial offers a business owners policy (BOP) that combines liability and commercial property insurance. This policy is ideal for businesses with a lot of foot traffic, such as restaurants, retail stores, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities.
Coverage for employee accidents
Employee injuries like slip and falls are covered by workers' compensation insurance, which also protects against job-related illnesses. Workers' comp helps pay for medical bills, lost wages, physical therapy, and other rehabilitation costs. Most states require workers' comp insurance if you have employees.
How common are slips and falls in the workplace?
Work-related slips and falls are more common than you may think. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), slips or trips that lead to a fall are among the most common causes of workplace injuries and account for 15% of all workplace fatalities.
A 2021-2022 report from the U.S. Bureau of Statistics recorded 450,540 slip and fall incidents, with the construction industry accounting for nearly half of all fatal slips and falls.
What a slip and fall can cost employers
The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) statistics show the average compensation claim for a slip and fall injury was $51,047 as of 2022. Studies conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) also demonstrate that workers' compensation claims and medical bills associated with workplace slips and falls are estimated at $70 billion annually.
Preventing slip and fall lawsuits
A single slip and fall incident can lead to business interruptions and expensive legal issues. Fortunately, most slips and falls are preventable. Creating a safe environment for employees and visitors can go a long way in protecting your company.
Consider following these five tips to help keep your business running smoothly and safely:
1. Provide safety training to employees
You can reduce the risk of accidents by encouraging your staff to take proactive measures that reduce the chance of an incident, like cleaning up spills and removing clutter. Building a culture of safety creates an environment where employees feel empowered and productive.
2. Maintain your property inside and out
Slip and falls at a business can occur anywhere on the premises. Everyday conditions, from cracks in exterior walkways to spills or leaks on interior floors, can create a potential issue. Regular upkeep, cleanliness, and proper lighting can reduce the risk of a mishap.
3. Conduct routine inspections of your premises
Avoid potential dangers before they cause harm. Look for hazards like loose handrails, uneven or slick walkways, and cluttered aisles. Note any concerns and address them immediately.
4. Install surveillance cameras
Cameras do more than guard against theft or vandalism. They're also useful for spotting and reviewing incidents like slips and falls. Video footage can reveal problem areas so you can fix them before someone gets hurt.
5. Document and report accidents
If someone slips and falls at your workplace or job site, the first step is to make sure the injured person is taken care of properly. From there, you can document what happened by getting statements from witnesses and taking pictures.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report a claim. Insurance companies like Progressive Commercial can answer any questions and help you navigate the process.
Protect the public and your business from slips and falls
Accidents happen, but preventive measures can reduce the risk. Safeguard your business by taking proactive steps to ensure a safe environment. Get the right slip and fall insurance for the safety of employees, guests, and property. Call us or start a quote online to find insurance that meets your needs.
