Winter in Canada brings beautiful snowy landscapes, but it also introduces significant risks for businesses and individuals. Effective ice and snow removal is crucial to ensure safety and prevent personal injury claims. This article explores the importance of professional snow removal services, the legal landscape surrounding personal injury claims, and the insurance coverage options available to protect small and medium businesses during the winter months.
Ice and Snow Removal
The Rise in Personal Injury Lawsuits
Personal injury lawsuits have increased dramatically in recent years, especially in Ontario. In fact, the Insurance Bureau of Canada reported that commercial liability insurance claims involving slip-and-fall incidents on icy surfaces increased by 108% between 2013 and 2020, rising from $2.4 billion to $5.1 billion in Canada(1). Personal injury law firms often work on a contingency basis, meaning lawyers only receive payment if they win a settlement. This has led to more people pursuing compensation after slips or falls at icy or snowy locations, incentivizing lawyers to seek higher damages.
The Role of Snow Removal Contractors
Canadians rely heavily on snow removal contractors to ensure safe access to businesses during winter. Businesses face high risks from ice and snow, which can threaten their operations. Understanding the specific exposures, geographical location, and historical weather patterns is essential for obtaining comprehensive insurance coverage to protect business survival.
SWG’s Insurance Coverage Highlights
- Cross Liability
- Contingent Employer’s Liability
- Product Completed Operations Coverage (Broad Form)
- Occurrence Form Policies (claims made option available)
- Enhancement Coverage: Faulty Workmanship, Product Recall, Employee Benefit, Employer’s Comprehensive Bodily Injury Liability, Sub-limits for Errors & Omissions, Manufacturer’s E&O, and Employment Practices Liability
- Limits: Up to $10,000,000
- Deductibles: Starting at $1,000, customizable based on business size or operation type
- Coverage: Available for sales worldwide, including the U.S. (with turnover limitations)
South Western Insurance Group is a premier MGA in Canada, offering comprehensive coverage to thousands of small business owners and independent professionals across a wide range of industries, including snow removal contractors.
For quotes and more information, contact our underwriting team!
Source:
1. Insurance Business Magazine.
*Insurance coverage availability may differ between provinces.
* * Content is current as of the date of broadcast and is subject to change without notice.
