Addressing 5 Common Sources of General Liability Claims

Fortunately, organizations can reduce their exposure by understanding common sources of general liability claims and taking proactive steps to mitigate risk. This article outlines five common sources of general liability claims.

Slip, Trip, and Fall Hazards

Slip, trip, and fall incidents make up a significant portion of the general liability claims filed against businesses. They may arise from numerous circumstances, including wet floors, uneven surfaces, torn carpeting, poorly maintained flooring, and debris in walkways. Spills and clutter may also develop in busy environments or high-traffic areas such as entrances and lobbies. Consider the following risk-mitigation measures:

• Use slip-resistant flooring in high-traffic and wet-prone areas, and place and maintain absorbent entry mats during inclement weather.
• Inspect the premises for wet floors, damaged flooring or worn mats and promptly address any defects found. Record inspection and remediation efforts.
• Clean up spills immediately and document response times.
• Use conspicuous wet floor signage during cleaning or when you can’t address spill hazards immediately. Ensure signage remains in place until the floor is dry.
• Keep walkways free of debris and avoid using extension cords and other trip hazards in public spaces.

Parking Lots and Sidewalks

Parking lots and sidewalks are high-traffic areas where numerous hazardous conditions (e.g., potholes, cracked pavements, uneven surfaces, deteriorating curbs, and inadequate snow or ice removal) can increase the likelihood of general liability claims, especially when visitors are distracted by vehicles or pedestrians. Consider the following risk-mitigation measures:

• Conduct and document daily and post-weather-event inspections of all parking lots and exterior walkways and remove hazardous debris (e.g., broken glass or litter) promptly to reduce trip risks.
• Promptly repair pavement defects, using cones or barricades to alert pedestrians until repairs are complete.
• Implement a formal snow and ice removal plan with defined response times, service frequency and removal standards.
• Improve and maintain exterior lighting to enhance visibility, especially near entrances and parking areas.

Use signage and striping to guide pedestrian and vehicle traffic and draw attention to steps, curbs and ramps.

Inadequate Lighting and Visibility Risks

Poorly lit parking areas, walkways, stairwells, and building entrances can increase general liability exposures. Visitors may struggle to see hazards such as debris or elevation changes, increasing slip-and-fall risks. Low lighting may also encourage criminal activity (e.g., vandalism or assault), which could result in security-related claims. Consider the following risk-mitigation measures:

• Conduct routine lighting audits inside and outside the facility, including nighttime walkthroughs, to identify dark or poorly lit areas.
• Check bulbs routinely and replace them promptly, upgrading to higher output or LED fixtures when appropriate.
• Ensure stairways, ramps, and transition areas are well illuminated.

Test emergency lighting and exit signage on a scheduled basis.

Hazardous Conditions on the Premises

Hazardous conditions, especially those arising from improper maintenance or overlooked repairs, often drive general liability claims. Hazards may develop gradually and include broken handrails, malfunctioning doors, damaged steps, unstable shelving, and general property deterioration. When organizations don’t address these issues promptly, they may face negligence allegations and increased liability risk. Consider the following risk-mitigation measures:

• Conduct routine facility inspections using safety checklists to catch risks, such as unstable shelving or cracked floors.
• Maintain a preventive maintenance program that details which maintenance activities will be performed, when, and by whom.
• Prioritize repairs based on the severity of the hazard they present and document any corrective actions taken.
• Train employees on what constitutes a safety concern and encourage them to report hazards promptly.

Property Damage

Damage to customer belongings by employees, delivery personnel, maintenance staff, or business operations is another frequent source of general liability claims. Incidents may include accidentally breaking a high-value item at a client’s home, scratching or denting property during a delivery, or damaging a floor after dropping a heavy tool. Consider the following risk mitigation measures:

• Ask employees to complete pre- and post-work checklists at client properties to document existing conditions and support future damage claims.
• Direct employees to use protective coverings to safeguard floors, furniture, and other property.
• Train employees to handle and transport equipment smoothly and safely.
• Routinely check tools and equipment for defects.

Conclusion

By embracing a proactive risk management approach, organizations can reduce their exposure to general liability claims. Regular inspections, documented maintenance, prompt corrective actions, and a culture that promotes risk management awareness may further lower claim frequency and severity while demonstrating due diligence. This can be especially important when defending claims that do occur.

For more risk management guidance or to discuss general liability insurance, contact Murphy Insurance Agency today.