The holidays may be the most wonderful time of the year, but serious household accidents do occur in December. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, holiday decoration-related mishaps sent nearly 13,000 people to emergency rooms last year.
While the holidays are a time for cheer and goodwill, an accident can quickly spoil the spirit, being aware of your insurance coverage and insuring against holiday mishaps offers peace of mind.
MISHAPS YOUR POLICY MAY COVER:
O’ Christmas tree: You thought you tied it down securely, but a glance in the rear-view mirror reveals your Douglas fir atop the hood of a following vehicle. Damage to the other vehicle may be covered by your automobile policy.
Up on the rooftop: Festive lighting is one of the most important parts of the holidays. However, traversing wet roofs and icy stepladders can be dangerous. If a guest slips and falls, your insurance policy may cover associated medical bills, and may provide defense against a lawsuit.
Lighting the menorah: Nine candles burning atop the mantel is an inspirational sight, but poses a fire hazard. Costs to repair burned walls or damaged flooring may be covered. Check your renters or homeowners policy to be sure.
Festive feasting: Whether celebrating Kwanza or Christmas, seasonal socializing during the dinner hour creates a serious choking risk. Your current policy may offer coverage for a guest’s medical care and your legal fees.
Candy cane pain: Should a visitor chip a tooth on a candy cane or a peanut brittle snowman, dental repairs may be covered.
MORE MISHAPS:
Santa’s four-wheeled sleigh: While you’re battling it out inside the mall, your car is at the mercy of careless drivers, runaway shopping carts and the elements. Broken taillights, door dings and hail damage may be covered by your auto policy.
Down through the chimney: Unfortunately, theft occurs during the holiday season, fortunately it’s covered. It’s a good idea to keep an up-to-date inventory of existing and new purchases in the case of theft.
Ice follies: Winter wonderlands are great for songs, but terrible for sidewalks. If guests or other invitees slip and fall on your property, protection for medical payments and legal fees may be covered.
Eat, drink and be responsibly merry: Most states have social host liability laws, which can hold you responsible for accidents or injuries caused by inebriated guest. Monitor your guests’ alcohol intake and designate drivers.
Runaway reindeer: Avoid deer in the road. Animal collisions cause significant damage but repair costs are usually covered.
The holidays offer a reminder to cherish and protect what is most important.
Call your AAA agent or 1-866-222-7868 to discuss your coverage options.