Morning dew, spilled drinks, or a quick summer storm can quickly turn your restaurant or bar patio area into a slick, dangerous mess. If a guest slips and gets hurt, your business could be facing major liability issues.

In today's Aegis blog post, we explore some of the hidden risks you should consider if you have a restaurant or bar patio, and how to mitigate those risks with the right kind of Commercial Insurance coverage.

Wobbly Furniture and Loose Railings

Outdoor chairs and tables take a beating from weather and daily use. A loose chair leg or a railing that gives way at the wrong moment can lead to serious injuries and potential liability claims.

If worn or damaged patio furniture or fixtures and leads to someone being hurt on your property, General Liability coverage can help cover their medical expenses and any resulting liability claims.

Patio Heaters and Open Flames

If you use propane patio heaters, fire pits, candles, or anything with a flame, you're adding both comfort and risk to your business. One small tilt, gust of wind, or distracted customer can turn a cozy spot into a fire hazard.

Commercial Property Insurance helps cover fire damage to your building or equipment. If a fire spreads or causes harm to customers, your General Liability policy can help cover those expenses and liability claims as well.

Crowded Walkways

Busy patios can get crowded from servers weaving around guests, wandering kids, or a customer's dog getting underfoot. One unexpected trip or fall can send food and drinks flying and a person to urgent care.

General Liability Insurance is a great help in these situations. It helps cover injury claims and legal costs so one accident doesn't knock your restaurant or bar business off balance.

Unexpected Weather

Unexpected weather change come in a moment's notice, causing umbrellas to go flying and tents to collapse. A strong gust can send a whole setup tumbling into customers or employees, leading to devastating injuries and costly damages.

Excess Liability insurance helps cover the cost when damage or injuries go beyond what your standard policies handle. This policy serves as extra protection when something big happens and your General Liability limits aren't enough.

Why This All Matters

You can run the safest patio in town, but real life still happens. Drinks spill. Weather changes fast. Equipment wears down. Business Insurance isn't there to replace common sense or regular maintenance, but it does make sure one unlucky moment doesn't derail your bar or restaurant business.

If you're not sure whether your patio risks are covered, now's a good time to double-check your policies. A few adjustments can save you a lot of stress when patio season hits full swing.

Want help figuring out the right coverage? Call Aegis Insurance & Financial Services at 713-850-7622 to get started.