Does My Homeowners Insurance Cover a “Slip and Fall” Claim?
A Slip and Fall claim is usually the result of one of three types of accidents:
- Floor Accidents
- Staircase or Stairwell Accidents
- Sidewalks Accidents
A floor accident is usually the result of a wet floor or a rug with frayed edges or a bad backing. They can also be caused by broken tile or simply a waxed floor. A staircase accident can occur from broken handrails, loose carpet or rug, or an object left on a step. A sidewalk accident usually occurs when someone slips on ice or snow. It can also be the result of broken concrete.
What you need to know and understand is that no matter what actually caused the accident, you are not necessarily automatically responsible for the injuries. You actually need to be responsible or negligent in some way that you caused it. This depends on whether or not your property is reasonably safe. You have a responsibility to keep your sidewalks, floors and staircases safe if you are expecting company. If you knowingly allowed a visitor in an area of your home that is obviously unsafe, then you may be held liable for any injuries that result from an accident.
If you are found to be liable for the accident, then you need to contact your insurance carrier and find out whether or not you are covered. Not all policies are the same, nor do they offer the same dollar amount of coverage.
One interesting point, however, is that regardless of your homeowners policy, if the accident occurred to someone who is committing a crime on the property, you are not liable at all.
If you have any questions, please give us a call: 651-739-9684