Assessing Risks for Alcohol Sales:
For some the dream of owning a bar is worth pursuing. As the plan evolves into a reality, most of the thought in the bar’s creation is driven by creating profit. The foundation of profitability is integral, yet without risk there is no business. While operative risk can be managed, the inherent nature of alcohol poses the need to protect the business’s sustainability.
Most bar owners are aware of the need for insurance, and many can roughly explain their needs. However, the need for certain coverage does not always mean it is included in the policies purchased.
Assault and Battery:
A key coverage aspect that is sometimes excluded is “Assault and Battery.” The Assault and Battery endorsement should be attached or included with the Liquor Liability Coverage.
Patrons of the establishment are the responsibility of the Bar or Tavern. This means the owner of the establishment is liable for their physical safety on and around the property. A slip and fall is covered by General Liability, but what happens when a fight breaks out due to intoxication? This is where assault and battery coverage plays part.
Assault and Battery provides coverage for situations involving intoxicated patrons that cause physical or emotional damage to others after being served alcohol at the establishment. Without this endorsement a Bar is considered to be at risk for a loss.
Assault and Battery Coverage Claim Examples:
- Individual Injured during a Bar Fight – Damages sustained by the participants in the altercation as well as any witnesses that experienced physical harm
- Claims Made Against Security – Damages sustained (or claimed) from intoxicated patron who is physically forced to leave
- Patron Assaulted Upon Exit of Establishment – Details of the occurrence are required, but the policy may extend coverage to a customer mugged upon exit late night
- Witnesses Affected by Violence – Coverage can extend to emotional harm sustained by witnesses for the
- Sexual Assault – Since the #metoo movement there has been an increase in claims made in this realm. In the event of intoxicated patron is the source coverage may apply.
Wes Connor Insurance – Bars and Restaurants:
Wes Connor Insurance has key strengths in Bars and Restaurants. Our strength is factored by the experience writing such accounts and the variety of Insurance Companies that we offer.
Got a different question that needs an answer?
Call our office and talk to someone who can help – 704.665.5340
photo credit: Hogg, John. “The Holiday Season Approaches: What you need to know about liquor liability Insurance.” Zensurance. November 14th, 2022
