Insurance Policies and Accidents, Prepare for Halloween and for the Coming Holidays
Halloween is a fun time of year where everyone can admire costumes and decorations as well as enjoy various treats. There are too many people, however, that avoid thinking of potentially harmful situations that often occur around holidays. Everyone should take the time to carefully review their insurance policies, particularly their homeowner’s insurance and auto insurance.
Along with Halloween treats come the tricks, including vandalism. The Street reports that vandalism to a car is typically covered under auto insurance after the deductible so if there is extensive damage then making a claim is a good idea. Otherwise it may be best for the vehicle owner to pay the damages in order to keep their premiums low. There may be more stipulations in regards to household damage so take the time to talk with an insurance agent. (10 Halloween pranks covered by car insurance, The Street, October 8, 2014)
“As a homeowner, you will want to check your property over thoroughly for any potential dangers,” explainsFrank N. Darras, America’s top disability insurance lawyer. “There may be pitfalls that you were not aware of and it’s best to handle them before you have children stepping on to your property. Not all homeowners will be careful, however, so if you are taking your children trick-or-treating you should avoid any homes with walkways in poor condition. It’s best to move on to another house rather than risk your child tripping and becoming injured.”
According to SafeWise,“Trick-or-treaters are too busy counting candy to pay close attention to where they’re walking, so it’s critical to survey your yard for potential trip and slip hazards. Be sure your yard is free of tripping hazards like hoses and sprinklers, clear walkways of loose gravel, and be sure to clean moss off the steps. If your home has an irrigation system, turn the system off well in advance of the big night so your lawn and walkways have a chance to dry,” (9 Ways to Prepare Your House for a Safe Halloween: SafeWise, October 8, 2014).
Homeowners should be aware of the dangers of electrical cords for decorations since they can be both a tripping hazard and a fire hazard. Also, keep pets inside and away from trick-or-treaters to protect them from harm and a homeowner from a lawsuit.
“When you prepare your insurance policies for disasters, you are safeguarding yourself from expensive damages or liability concerns. Don’t wait until the last minute to review your insurance policies. Get in touch with an expert who can make sure all circumstances will be covered. Halloween can be a scary holiday for kids but it doesn’t have to be that way for you,” says Darras.