You Better Watch Out: Insuring Against Holiday Mishaps
The holidays may be the most wonderful time of the year, but many serious household accidents occur in December. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, holiday decoration-related accidents send nearly 13,000 people to emergency rooms every year.
While the holidays are a time for cheer and goodwill, an accident can quickly spoil the spirit. Being aware of your insurance coverage can offer peace of mind and a measure of reassurance at the holidays. Here are some of the typical – and not so typical – situations your insurance policy might cover:
O’ Christmas tree: You thought you tied it down securely, but a glance in the rearview 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. Should a guest slip and fall while helping hang the holiday lights, 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’s Karamu feast or carving into the Christmas ham, 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.
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.
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.
Runaway reindeer: Crowded roadways and inclement weather can make it difficult to see and avoid animals that dart across the road. Animal collisions can cause significant vehicle damage, but the associated repair costs are usually covered with comprehensive coverage.
To find out more about home or auto insurance, contact your AAA Insurance Agent at 1-800-222-1469, visit AAA.com/Insurance, or stop by your local AAA office.
