Assault & Battery

We hope this message finds you well.

As part of our commitment to keeping you informed about important developments in insurance coverage, we want to draw your attention to a significant update regarding commercial property policies.

Assault & Battery Exclusions: What You Need to Know
In recent times, there has been a notable trend among insurance providers to exclude coverage for incidents related to assault and battery. This exclusion means that any damages, liabilities, or losses resulting from assault or battery incidents may not be covered under some existing policy.

Why is this important – Because in the last several months we have now had three incidences with our service station client are being sued for alleged “Assault and Battery” by one of their employee’s.

Whether your policy has this exclusion or not,  it's imperative to take proactive steps to protect your business from potential risks. Here are some recommended actions to consider:

1.    Enhanced Security Measures: Implement security measures to help prevent assault and battery incidents on your premises. This may involve installing more surveillance cameras and implementing access control measures.
2.    Employee Training: Provide comprehensive training to your staff on conflict resolution, de-escalation techniques, and how to respond effectively to potentially volatile situations. Equipping your employees with the necessary skills can help mitigate the risk of incidents escalating into violence.
3.    Customer Communication: Clearly communicate your zero-tolerance policy for violence and aggressive behavior to your customers. Post signs outlining your expectations for conduct on your premises and take prompt action to address any violations.
4.    Incident Response Plan: Develop a detailed incident response plan outlining the steps to be taken in the event of an assault or battery incident. This should include protocols for contacting law enforcement, documenting evidence, and providing support to affected individuals.
5.    Regular Policy Reviews: Regularly review and update your insurance policies to ensure they adequately reflect the evolving needs and risks of your business. Work closely with your insurance agent or broker to identify any gaps in coverage and make necessary adjustments.

By taking proactive measures to address the risk of assault and battery incidents, you can help protect your business and minimize potential liabilities. Our team is here to support you every step of the way and provide tailored insurance solutions to meet your specific needs.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the assault and battery exclusion or any other aspect of your insurance coverage, please don't hesitate to reach out to our team. We are here to help and are committed to ensuring that you have the protection and support you need to safeguard your business interests effectively.

Thank you for entrusting us with your insurance needs. We look forward to continuing to serve you and to providing you with the highest level of service and support.    

Sincerely,
The RKM Team.