Why General Liability Insurance Is Essential for Kansas Businesses During Storm Season 

Hail, straight-line winds and flash flooding can be a reality for Prairie Village, KS businesses. A general liability policy covers third-party damages and attorney fees if a lawsuit follows. Bovard Insurance Group can help you secure coverage for seasonal weather risks.

Understanding Storm Season Risks in Kansas

Heavy rain and high winds can cause injuries and property damage. General liability insurance applies in several storm-related situations:

• Third-party bodily injury—If a visitor is injured on your property during severe weather, this coverage can help pay for their medical expenses.
• Property damage from debris or equipment—High winds may dislodge signs, tools or building materials, and your policy may cover the resulting repairs to nearby vehicles or property if your business is found responsible for failing to secure the item.
• Slip-and-fall claims—Slick entryways and waterlogged floors can lead to customer falls, which your policy can respond to.
• Damage to neighboring structures—Storm runoff or detached building components may damage adjacent lots, and the resulting claims may fall under your policy if a failure to maintain your property contributed to the damage.

Strengthening Your Liability Coverage

While general liability addresses third-party incidents, storm conditions can also affect your property and vehicle fleet. You can strengthen your seasonal coverage by adding complementary policies:

• Business owners policies (BOPs) combine general liability, commercial property and business interruption coverage into one package. These can cover repair costs for buildings, furnishings and stock damaged during severe weather.
• Business interruption insurance may cover specific ongoing operating expenses if storm damage causes closure or relocation of the business.
• Commercial auto insurance may cover weather-related repairs or vehicle replacements for cars and trucks used in daily operations.

What Affects Your Premium

The cost of a general liability policy depends on your business rather than a standard rate. Underwriters weigh a few details:

• Industry and operations—A roofing crew working through storm season costs more to insure than a tenant in an office suite.
• Claims history—A record of past liability claims can increase your rate.
• Limits and deductibles—Higher limits raise your premium, while a higher deductible lowers it. Before you trade a lower premium for a higher deductible, make sure your business can pay that amount on short notice if you need to file a claim.
• Property upkeep—Solid roofing, working drainage and secure signage mean fewer storm claims to report.

Our Team Can Help

Bovard Insurance Group reviews your operations, pinpoints coverage gaps and recommends policies built for the risks your industry faces. Contact us today for a custom quote.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.