If your Connecticut business has a liquor license, it may be a good idea to obtain liquor liability insurance. A liquor liability insurance policy may help to cover the cost of attorney’s fees and costs of any damages caused by an intoxicated individual. In some states, you may need to obtain such a policy as a condition of obtaining a liquor license.
Types of businesses that could need extra coverage
Generally speaking, a bar, restaurant or grocery store that sells or serves alcohol could benefit from having a liquor liability insurance policy. It is important to note that this type of insurance is different from host liquor liability coverage. A host liquor liability policy can often be included as part of a general liability policy and is designed for individuals or companies hosting a single event.
You can take proactive steps to reduce your liability
It is generally a good idea to provide training to anyone who may be serving or selling alcohol. Doing so may help individuals spot signs of impairment and prevent them from serving a person who may already be impaired. You or your staff should also encourage patrons to drink responsibly or to call for a ride if they are too drunk to drive themselves home.
However, it is important to note that it might not be realistic to assume that you’ll prevent all of your patrons from driving after getting drunk in your establishment. Regardless of your efforts, if someone causes bodily injury or property damage after drinking at your bar or restaurant, you or your company can be held liable. This may be one of the most important reasons why you should obtain a liquor liability insurance policy.
An insurance defense attorney may be able to come to your aid in the event that another party files a claim against you or your company. Your attorney can assess whether the claim has been properly brought in compliance with your state’s law and may be able to resolve the matter outside of court in a timely manner.
