Winter Guest Safety: Slips and Falls, Costly Claims

An inn can feel like the perfect escape this time of year. But while guests settle in, conditions outside can shift quickly, turning an ordinary part of their stay into a serious safety concern.

For innkeepers, one overlooked hazard can put guest safety and your business at risk.

When Winter Conditions Create Slip-and-Fall Hazards

Slip-and-fall incidents are one of the most common and costly claims innkeepers can face during the winter months.

Snow and ice can change how guests move around your inn. Parking areas, sidewalks, stairs, entrances, and other frequently traveled areas can become slip-and-fall hazards as conditions change throughout the day. A guest injury can disrupt operations, create unexpected costs, and potentially lead to a claim.

Make prevention part of your inn’s daily routine with these practical steps:

• Inspect guest areas regularly. Pay close attention to parking areas, sidewalks, stairs, and entrances.
• Address changing conditions. Clear snow, treat icy surfaces, and recheck areas throughout the day.
• Keep entrances Use secure mats and address tracked-in snow and moisture before floors become slippery.
• Check visibility. Make sure guests can clearly see walkways, stairs, and other areas they use after dark.
• Document what you do. Keep a record of inspections and the steps taken to address hazards.

Why Guest Injuries Carry High Liability

A guest injury claim can involve more than medical expenses. Depending on the injury, a guest may seek compensation for rehabilitation, lost income, and other damages. Legal defense costs and a potential settlement or judgment can add to the financial exposure your inn faces.

A fall does not automatically make your inn legally responsible. However, a guest may allege that you failed to identify or address an unsafe condition. Defending against that allegation can require time, records, and legal support, even when you took steps to maintain safe conditions.

That makes understanding your insurance coverage just as important as understanding the hazards around your inn. Review these questions with your insurance advisor:

• What does your general liability policy cover? Discuss how it responds to guest injury claims and which exclusions may apply.
• How does it handle defense costs? Ask whether legal expenses reduce the coverage available for a settlement or judgment.
• Are your liability limits appropriate? Review whether your current limits fit your inn’s exposure and whether umbrella or excess liability coverage warrants consideration.
• What happens after an incident? Confirm reporting requirements and whom to contact so you know how to involve your insurer promptly.

Address Winter Liability Before a Guest Falls

Connect with a CBIZ advisor to review your inn’s winter guest safety practices and liability coverage.