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When parents entrust their children
into your care, you are responsible (liable, in insurance and legal
terms) for keeping them safe. But no matter how carefully you watch
the children in your facility, accidents can and do happen. This leaves
you open to unique liability exposures. For example, parents could
sue you for negligence if their child is injured while in your care.
If you were found guilty and had no insurance, you would have to pay
the child's family out of your own pocket.
Luckily,
liability insurance can protect you and your assets up to the limits
of the policy you buy. The policy limit is the maximum amount the
insurance company will pay for covered claims. Claims involving injured
children are always volatile and emotional-often leading to larger
claims. So if you buy a policy with limits of $1 million, your covered
claims will be paid up to that amount.
Why Day Care Programs Need Liability
Insurance
There are two important reasons to buy liability coverage. First,
in the event of a lawsuit, you will have the broad expertise of the
insurance company to defend you in court and ultimately pay your covered
claims. Second, the insurance company has extensive knowledge of child
care claims, and can offer loss control advice that reduces the chance
of a loss. A loss that "does not occur" keeps your premiums down and,
more importantly, children safe.
Selecting a Company
An independent insurance agent can help you design a coverage
program that suits your needs. Their role is to be your "insurance
consultant," and their fee is paid by the insurance companies they
represent. When your agent recommends a company, look for the following:
- An A.M. Best rating of "A" or higher
(A.M. Best rates insurance companies on the basis of their financial
strength and ability to pay claims.)
- A company that writes a lot of child
care business or has a special program for the industry.
- A company that has a solid loss control
and risk management program to help you maintain a safe environment.
Always have your agent review your policy's
terms, conditions, and coverage. Ask questions if you need clarification-both
the amount of coverage (limit) and what is covered are important.
Like anything else you buy, cheaper isn't necessarily better. A cheaper
policy may not offer all the special coverage you need, so compare
policies carefully and choose the one that gives you everything you
require. The good news is, you can write off the entire cost of your
liability insurance as a tax-deductible business expense.
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