Farm Stands, U-pick and Agritourism: Do You Need Liability Insurance?

Among all U.S. businesses, those in the agriculture industry are among the most dangerous and accident-prone. Many risks and exposures are constant or at least relevant among a variety of agricultural businesses, including those with potentially nontraditional farming operations. Farm stands, businesses where guests pick their own produce and agritourism ventures can all involve extensive liability concerns, requiring carefully crafted insurance coverage.

Why Do These Businesses Need Liability Coverage?

Farm stands, u-pick businesses—where visitors may select their own produce—and agritourism, which may include various recreational activities, can require robust insurance. Given the consistent presence of customers and guests on-site at these businesses, risks and exposures can be greater and more complicated than those of traditional farms, where the general public may have limited access.

Consider the following real-life scenarios:

• Farm stands, such as those at farmers’ markets, take on inherent risk by selling food and other consumable products. If a customer purchases spoiled or contaminated products and they become ill, they could file a lawsuit. Appropriate liability coverage could help offset resulting losses.

• U-pick farms, where guests can visit your business and pick their own produce, also typically require insurance. Given the inherent foot traffic involved in your operations, you must account for the possibility of guest injuries. If a customer trips over something and falls or cuts themselves on a tool that has been left out, your insurance may compensate them for medical bills and assist with other costs.

• Agritourism businesses can involve a multitude of operations, including hay rides, corn mazes and petting zoos. All of these activities may attract many customers while involving significant liability concerns. For instance, if a guest is injured by an agitated animal or falls from a hay ride, they may sue your business, at which point appropriate liability insurance could make all the difference.

How to Get the Right Coverage

Assessing and addressing your liability coverage needs can be a complicated process. While general liability insurance may address many common concerns, the nuances of various agricultural businesses may require customized coverage and enhanced financial protections. For example, special event insurance may be suitable for seasonal agritourism functions, such as fall festivals and haunted barns.

At Don Ramatici Insurance, we can help your business secure appropriate liability coverage tailored to its unique agricultural operations. Contact us today to learn more.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.