An Unwanted Christmas Surprise: Avoiding a Public Liability Claim this Christmas

Christmas is a time for giving, but not for giving someone an injury. At this time of year, it is common that end of year celebrations are held at many homes around South Australia. What happens if someone is injured at your home? They might have a claim against you! However, in many instances you will likely have an insurer to step in, as many homeowners and renters have public liability insurance, which is a type of injury cover for these situations.

We assume that you want to prevent your loved ones (or even people that you had to invite) from suffering injury on your property, even though you are likely insured in the event of their injury.  

We set out below some real-life examples of what can go wrong, especially during the silly season. These include:

• Backyard fires – people can fall in or sustain burns if they are too close.
• Inadequate lighting – it might be more fun in the dark but particularly when alcohol is involved, guests can fall and hurt themselves especially in areas that contain a hazard such as a step, uneven floor, cracking in the cement or paving, a hole, a garden bed, a pond or a pool.
• A balcony with too many people on it.
• Making the diving board the roof of the house.
• Wet floors and high heel shoes.
• Salmonella poisoning. It’s always the chicken or the egg.
• Dog attacks such as biting, scratching or knocking your guests over. Not all dogs love the fun of a party.
• A blocked chimney (you don’t want the kids to miss out on their presents).

From the team at MKF Lawyers, we wish you a happy and safe Christmas.

‍