You know in detail what aesthetic you want for your restaurant. You know what you want your customers to feel when they walk through your doors. You know what type of food you plan to serve, and have your mission statement and company culture down to a tee. Most details are covered, but have you thought about the many liabilities that come with owning a restaurant? The type of restaurant you own will determine what kind of liability insurances you need to invest in. We will touch on some of the most common types today, but this could vary from state to state, so be sure to look into what is required for your area.
General Liability typically covers you and your business in the case of bodily injuries and property damage that results from your products. For example, if a customer is injured from slipping on a wet floor or trips over a chair, general liability can help with those medical costs and help protect you from any action the customer chooses to take. However, general liability will not cover employee injuries, car accidents, or any harm that was caused intentionally.
Product Liability will come in handy if a customer gets food poisoning from eating at your restaurant. Of course you will do everything in your power to prevent this from happening, but the reality is that you can’t control everything. Most restaurant owners do not have control over every aspect of their supply chain, so protecting yourself in case this unfortunate event unfolds is a smart move.
Liquor Liability is for restaurants serving alcohol and is undeniably necessary. Restaurants can be held liable even after the customer who consumed alcohol has left the premises if they do not have the proper coverage. Liquor liability can help cover legal costs, settlements, repair costs to fix property damage, and even medical bills if necessary. If there was a physical altercation started by someone you served alcohol to, your liquor liability can help cover that claim as well. This is a no brainer. If you plan to serve alcohol, you need to have this coverage.
There are many types of coverage, so it is important to do your research and see what exactly your restaurant needs. When you open your business you are investing a lot of time, money and energy so that you have a successful, thriving restaurant. Ensuring that you protect that investment, and yourself, from various liabilities that may come your way is vital.
