It's another day in the Sunshine State, and you're working hard to keep your bar or restaurant running smoothly. Out of the blue, however, a customer sustains serious injuries after drinking at your establishment and decides to sue you. Are you protected from such claims?

Here's another scenario: One of your servers served too much alcohol to a patron. That same patron gets into an auto accident, injuring other people. The victims decide to sue your business for their losses. Are you liable?

If either or another similar situation occurs, you may need some financial protection. That's where liquor liability insurance comes into play.

Bellken Insurance Group has made a name for itself by providing liquor liability insurance and bar and tavern insurance for business owners in Florida. We work with some of the best insurance companies out there, so you can rest assured that you're getting the best coverage possible. Let us help you protect your business from the risk associated with serving alcohol to patrons.

Florida Liquor Liability Law

For any legal action to be taken against you, the party bringing the suit must prove that your business is liable for their injuries or losses. In Florida, there are three different laws pertaining to liquor liability that may affect your business.

"Dram Shop" Law

The "dram shop" law holds business owners liable for damages caused to other individuals due to serving alcohol. If a patron drinks too much at your establishment and then injures another individual, you may be held responsible for their losses.

In essence, this law holds that you, as a business owner, are liable for any injuries or damages caused by the person who became intoxicated at your establishment. Another important point to note is that the law applies even if the individual served was not obviously intoxicated.

Liquor Legal Liability

This law is similar to the "dram shop" law but also covers losses incurred by an intoxicated person. This means that if an intoxicated patron injures themselves or causes damage to property, you may be held liable for any losses.

Notably, liquor legal liability law is stricter than the "dram shop" law. It applies regardless of whether the person was obviously intoxicated or not. Therefore, it's important to be aware of this law and take all necessary precautions when serving alcohol.

Host Liquor Liability

Those who host private events, such as weddings or graduation parties, are also held liable if an individual becomes intoxicated and causes damage or injury. In Florida, hosts of such events can be held liable for damages incurred by an intoxicated person.

Overview of Liquor Liability Insurance in Florida

Now that you're familiar with Florida's liquor liability laws, you may be wondering how to protect yourself from such losses. This is where liquor liability insurance comes in.

Liquor liability insurance protects business owners from damages caused by an intoxicated person, whether that person was served at your business or not. This type of insurance also covers damage to property and damages incurred by the intoxicated person themselves.

Here are a few of the features of liquor liability insurance:

It provides coverage for both business owners and hosts

It covers legal fees and other costs associated with defending against a claim

It covers damages caused by an intoxicated person, even if they weren't served at your business

It covers losses incurred by an intoxicated person, such as medical expenses

It provides coverage for private events, such as weddings or graduations

It provides coverage for damage to property, such as a broken window or spilled drink

It covers any losses incurred by the injured party, such as lost wages

By carrying liquor liability insurance, you can rest assured that your business is protected should any legal action be taken against you.

Exemptions

A few exceptions to liquor liability law provide some protection for business owners. For example, minors are not legally allowed to consume alcohol and therefore, any damages caused by a minor will not be covered under liquor liability law.

Additionally, "Good Samaritan" laws provide some protection to those who aid an intoxicated person without expecting compensation. Finally, some establishments are exempt from liquor liability laws if they do not sell or serve alcohol, such as convenience stores.

Who Needs Liquor Liability Insurance in Florida?

Bars: Primarily those that serve alcohol to patrons

Restaurants: Those that serve alcoholic beverages

Nightclubs: Clubs or establishments with dancing and alcohol

Wineries: Venues that produce and serve wine

Breweries: Establishments that make and serve beer

Distilleries: Businesses that produce and distribute spirits

Caterers: Companies that provide food and beverage services

Event Planners: Professionals who organize events involving alcohol

Private Clubs: Organizations that permit members to consume alcohol on premises

Hotels: Accommodations with bars or restaurants serving alcohol

Convenience Stores: Businesses that sell alcoholic beverages for off-site consumption

Liquor Stores: Retailers that specialize in selling alcoholic beverages

Private Parties: Events held at a private residence or venue where alcohol is served

Casinos: Gambling establishments with bars and restaurants

Golf Courses: Establishments with bars or restaurants that serve alcohol

Other businesses, such as concert venues, festivals, and amusement parks may also need liquor liability insurance in Florida. It is important to check with your insurance provider to determine if your business is covered and what types of coverage are available.

What Does Florida Liquor Liability Insurance Cover?

Florida liquor liability insurance typically covers:

Coverage for legal fees and costs associated with defending against a claim

Damages caused by an intoxicated person (even if they weren't served at your business)

Losses incurred by the intoxicated person (such as medical expenses)

Damages to property (like a broken window or spilled drink)

Losses incurred by the injured party (such as lost wages)

Coverage for private events (like weddings or graduations)

Any damages incurred by the intoxicated person themselves

Other costs associated with defending against a claim (like court costs and attorney fees).

Coverage for any liquor-related crime or incident, such as serving alcohol to minors.

Coverage for any legal action that may result from serving alcohol (such as medical costs or property damage).

Coverage for personal injury or death caused by serving alcohol to an intoxicated person.

Coverage for any damage to a third party, such as a patron who was injured due to an intoxicated person.

Coverage for any liquor law violations (such as serving alcohol past closing time).

Coverage for fraudulent claims (such as a patron claiming they were served alcohol when they weren't).

Coverage for liquor law-related fines and penalties.

Coverage for any medical costs related to liquor law violations, such as those incurred from alcohol poisoning.

It is important to note that Florida liquor liability plans vary, so it is essential to check with your insurance provider to determine the specific coverage options available.

How Much Does Liquor Liability Insurance Cost in Florida?

The cost of Florida liquor liability insurance varies depending on the size and scope of the business. Generally, the larger the establishment and the more alcohol it serves, the higher the cost of coverage will be. Some other factors that influence the cost include:

The type of business (such as a nightclub versus a brewery)

The location and size of the business

The amount of alcohol served

The number of years in business

The risk level associated with the business (such as high-traffic areas or locations that serve minors).

Claim history

The type and amount of coverage

It is important to shop around for the best rates and coverage options from different providers to ensure you're getting the best deal.

To lower the cost of liquor liability insurance, businesses can implement "safe and responsible" alcohol-serving policies to minimize their risk. This could include training staff on alcohol safety and serving guidelines, implementing ID checks for patrons, or providing transportation.

Where Can I Get Liquor Liability Insurance in Florida?

An online tool can help you compare different providers and coverage options to ensure you get the best deal for your business. You can also speak to an insurance agent to discuss your options.

It is important to understand the coverage available through different policies and providers so you can make an informed decision about the best coverage for your business.

Compare Florida Liquor Liability Insurance Today!

Liquor Liability Insurance is a necessity for any business that serves or sells alcohol in Florida. Don't risk your business's financial security—compare liquor liability insurance policies today to find the best coverage and rates for your business.

Bellken Insurance Group is here to help you find your business's best coverage and rates. Our knowledgeable team of insurance agents will work with you to ensure you get the coverage you need at the best rate. Contact us today for more information or to get a free quote.