You hear the sizzle, feel the heat and smell the goodness – it is finally backyard barbecue season. Cookouts, family reunions, Fourth of July parties and pool parties are just some of the fun outdoor events we look forward to hosting in the summer.
We’re much more active in the summer months, but that increase in activity comes with an increase in risk. According to the Pew Research Center, emergency room visits increase during the summer due to an increase in daylight and popular outdoor activities such as grilling and boating. If someone gets hurt on your property, the liability risk likely lies on you. Are you adequately protected by your homeowners insurance policy?
All Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance homeowners insurance policies carry liability, but you want to ensure that you have enough coverage for your risks. For example, a simple fall from tripping on a step will likely not be as costly as someone getting a third-degree burn from your grill.
While you can purchase some policies with a $100,000 or $300,000 liability limit, a higher liability limit can provide you and your family with greater protection.
“When getting a homeowners insurance policy, it is worth your time to quote $1 million in liability coverage,” says Ryan Allen, manager of personal lines underwriting. “The price difference between $300,000 and $1 million liability coverage on most homeowners insurance policies is minimal. It may be worth it to make sure you are better protected.”
According to Allen, most of the liability claims Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance sees result from dog bites, but you need to be prepared for other unexpected scenarios. A minor injury could lead to medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, as well as other expenses. Things can add up quickly.
Another detail to know is that your homeowners policy liability protection follows you.
“I love to golf, but even the best golfers sometimes have shots that get away from them,” Allen says. “Since your liability follows you, if you hit an off shot and break someone’s window, you still have coverage. So, when the owner rushes out demanding you pay for it, remember you can file a claim through your insurance carrier.”
For a few extra dollars a year, higher liability coverage limits and the added peace of mind it can provide can be well worth it. Visit infarmbureau.com to learn more or find an agent. Have a fun summer, but make sure you’re protected.
Sources: Pew Research Center (July 3, 2019): “Hospital emergency rooms see boom in patients around the Fourth of July,” pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2019/07/03.
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