The bathroom in your store is likely one of the most-dangerous places for clients. One of its most-present risks is the chance of slip-and-fall accidents. If one occurs, then your business might bear responsibility for a client’s losses. These losses, in turn, might become very costly. Yet, you might be able to avoid losses if you have general liability insurance. It is one of the most important safeguards against problems stemming from slips-and-falls. How can you guarantee you have coverage in such cases?
Slip-and-Fall Risks in Bathrooms
Anyone knows that a bathroom has fall risks. The most-recognizable risk comes from that related to leaking or standing water. Overflowing toilets and sinks, leaky pipes, and even water dripping from someone’s wet hands might cause the risks. Still, other fall risks might exist because of:
- Slick or loose flooring
- Floors littered with paper products
- Improperly-functioning safety rails
- Broken toilet seats
Should any of these hazards cause someone to fall, their injuries might prove severe. Consider the damage and costs a client might suffer, such as:
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Concussions or head injuries
- Sprains
- Mental anguish
These might cost significant medical and personal losses for the injured party. Their hospital or rehab bills might skyrocket. They might even lose income because they cannot work. As a result, they might blame you as the party responsible for their losses. They might even decide to sue you.
Regardless of if the accident was your fault, you still might face costs from such losses. Your legal costs alone could cost thousands of dollars. Should you have to pay a settlement on top of that, the losses could even make business unsustainable. However, if you have general liability insurance, you will often have help.
When Your Policy Covers You
Insurers recognize that slip-and-fall risks are among the most prevalent in businesses. So, in the vast majority of cases, your liability policy will cover client falls in your bathroom. You have a better chance of weathering the storm and coming out unscathed.
Yet, though your policy might cover you, that does not mean you shouldn’t try to prevent liability claims. That means preventing slips and falls in bathrooms. You can do so by keeping the bathroom clean and dry at all times. If you have a spill or a leak, mop it up, and keep ample wet floor signs on hand. You will also have to make regular repairs should hazards arise in the room. Keep your eye on things, check out the room daily, and respond regularly to client complaints.