AAA urges precautions against holiday mishaps

Slipping off ladder, chipping tooth from candy cane among the potential pitfalls

Press Release, AAA Western and Central New York

The holidays may be the most wonderful time of the year, but many serious household accidents occur in December.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, on average, there are about 200 decorating-related injuries each day during the holiday season, with about half of the incidents involving falls. In the 2018 holiday season, about 17,500 people were treated in emergency rooms due to holiday decorating-related injuries.

“While the holidays are a time for cheer and goodwill, an accident can quickly spoil the spirit,” said Stacey McConnell, vice president of insurance at AAA Western and Central New York. “Being aware of your insurance coverage can offer peace of mind and a measure of reassurance at the holidays.”

Here are some of the typical – and not so typical – situations your AAA insurance policy might cover:

• Up on the rooftop: Traversing wet roofs and icy stepladders can be dangerous. Should a guest slip and fall while helping hang the holiday lights, your insurance policy may cover associated medical bills.
• Candy cane pain: Should a visitor chip a tooth on a candy cane or peanut brittle, dental repairs may be covered.
• Santa’s four-wheeled sleigh: While you’re battling it out inside the mall, your car is at the mercy of careless drivers, runaway shopping carts and the elements. Broken taillights, door dings and hail damage may be covered by your auto policy.
• Down through the chimney: The chimney may be famous for gift delivery, but unlocked doors and windows are often to blame for unwanted gift removal. While theft is a covered loss, it’s a good idea to maintain an up-to-date inventory of existing and new purchases to ensure all your possessions are safely documented.
• Ice follies: Winter wonderlands are great for songs, but terrible for sidewalks. If guests or other invitees slip and fall on your property, protection for medical payments and legal fees may be covered.
• Eat, drink and be responsibly merry: Most states have social host liability laws, which may hold you responsible for accidents or injuries caused by your inebriated guests. Be sure to monitor your guests’ alcohol intake and designate drivers.
• Runaway reindeer: Crowded roadways and inclement weather can make it difficult to see and avoid animals that dart across the road. Animal collisions can cause significant vehicle damage, but the associated repair costs are usually covered with comprehensive coverage.