Why You Should Insist That Your Bartender Be Both Licensed and Insured
As you plan an event where drinks will be served, the bartender you choose plays a pivotal role in ensuring everything runs smoothly. However, not all bartenders offer the same level of protection. Let's delve into the difference between a licensed bartender and a licensed and insured bartender, and why it's imperative.
License vs. Insurance:
A licensed bartender has undergone the necessary training and acquired the required permits to serve alcohol legally. While this is undoubtedly important, it doesn't provide financial coverage if things go awry. Conversely, a licensed and insured bartender provides the additional financial benefit that comes from carrying liability insurance, namely financial protection against law suits in the event of an alcohol related incident.
The Risk of Liability:
In unfortunate circumstances, such as a guest becoming intoxicated or sustaining an injury, a licensed bartender lacking insurance might leave you liable for any resulting expenses or legal fees. Ask yourself if saving a few dollars on your wedding night is worth the risk of a million-dollar law suit without insurance to cover you. This potential financial burden underscores the importance of ensuring the bartender you hire is adequately insured.
Host Liquor Liability Considerations:
Host Liquor Liability covers the host when guests serve themselves at an event (e.g a no-host bar – guests pour their own drinks vs. a bartender pouring drinks) and when you are supplying the alcohol (provided your bartender is also insured). Even if you have host liquor liability insurance, it may not offer protection if your bartender lacks their own insurance coverage. Therefore, it's essential to prioritize hiring insured bartenders to mitigate potential liabilities and ensure comprehensive protection for all parties involved.
Cost Considerations:
While hiring an uninsured bartender may seem more cost-effective initially, the potential expenses resulting from a law suit will far outweigh any upfront savings. Investing in an insured bartender is a prudent decision that prioritizes long-term financial security and mitigates the risk of unexpected expenses.
The Importance of Insurance:
It's tempting to hire a bartender from a local bar or tavern, assuming they're covered by the establishment's liquor liability insurance. However, this coverage typically doesn't extend to off-site events. In other words, if an incident occurs at your event, you could be left without adequate protection.
Opting for an insured bartender means their insurance will step in to cover costs in case of an incident and resulting law suit. If their coverage falls short, eWed’s Host Liquor Liability coverage could then step in and save the day. This layered approach to protection offers peace of mind and shields you from substantial financial losses down the line.
Finding Insured Bartenders:
To ensure you're hiring a bartender with adequate insurance coverage, consider working with reputable professional bartending service or a professional catering company. These entities typically prioritize safety and responsibility, providing reassurance and peace of mind for you and your venue.
When it comes to serving alcohol at your event, choosing a licensed and insured bartender is non-negotiable. Their insurance coverage offers invaluable protection against potential liabilities and ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Don't compromise on safety—opt for the secure choice and enjoy peace of mind throughout your event.
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