Slip & Fall Season Is Here: Are You Prepared?

Understand Your Exposure

As the season changes, business owners face rising concerns over slip-and-fall incidents. These events are among the most common — yet preventable — injuries in commercial settings. Wet floors, poor lighting, and uneven or icy walkways can easily turn into major liability claims or lawsuits. Understanding these risks is crucial as they can quickly escalate into financial burdens.

Document Everything

In the event of an accident, having thorough documentation is a lifesaver. Keeping logs, taking photos, and securing surveillance footage can be pivotal in defending against false claims or proving your due diligence. It's essential to emphasize thorough and accurate record-keeping practices.

Create a Slip-and-Fall Prevention Plan

Developing a comprehensive prevention plan is a proactive step to protect your business. This includes conducting daily walk-throughs, ensuring clear signage, and staying current with repairs. Seasonal tasks, like preparing for snow and ice, not only enhance safety but also serve as a liability shield. Ensuring these tasks are part of your business routine is critical.

Know What Your Insurance Covers (and Doesn’t)

Understanding your insurance coverage is essential. Consider these four types of insurance in relation to slip-and-fall risks:

• General liability insurance: Covers customer or visitor injuries.
• Workers’ compensation: Covers employee injuries.
• Commercial property insurance: Covers damage to property due to accidents.
• Umbrella policies: Provides coverage beyond basic limits.

Each type can play a crucial role depending on the situation, so a comprehensive review with your advisor is beneficial.

Train Your Team

Team training is indispensable in mitigating risks. Implement training sessions focusing on spotting potential hazards and handling accidents. Emphasize the importance of quick responses and documentation, as these actions support a stronger liability defense.

Don't Wait Until Something Happens

Prevention is always better than a cure. Don’t wait for an incident to occur before taking action. Prioritize proactive planning and reviewing your coverage to ensure you’re adequately protected. Understanding your policies and making any necessary adjustments can safeguard your business against potential liabilities.

Slip-and-fall season isn’t just about icy sidewalks— it’s a call to action. By taking proactive steps today, you can prevent costly consequences tomorrow. Connect with your insurance advisor to review or fortify your liability coverage, ensuring you're well-prepared for the season ahead.