A daycare center is a place that can bring both staff and children great joy, but it is ultimately a business much like any other in certain ways. However, daycare centers have the unique focus on caring for children, which means that they must be aware of certain risks and do everything to limit them. However, it is not always possible to prepare for every possibility in this sometimes hectic environment, so it is highly recommended to acquire a daycare insurance policy that can protect you when something unforeseen occurs.
What Is Daycare Insurance?
Daycare insurance, also known as childcare insurance, refers to coverage intended to satisfy the necessities of a small daycare facility. Children can often be very difficult to supervise and control, especially those with developmental disorders. The failure to take a few simple precautions could result in one or more angry and distrustful parents demanding that your daycare center face penalties or even shut down.
A daycare center can be sued for one of many reasons, including punitive damages for wrongful actions and several different types of negligence. These kinds of claims include:
- Negligence per se, which includes not following regulations regarding staff-to-child ratios
- Res ipsa loquitur negligence, which is negligence that results in a child sustaining a physical injury
- Negligent supervision, which includes not taking proper precautions to watch over a child when they are responsible to do so
You can also receive coverage for damage to your organization’s property. One small misstep can frequently lead to disastrous situations called “liability events,” so it’s important to be cognizant of these types of cases and claims.
Studies show children in daycare vastly outnumber workers in these facilities in the United States. For this reason alone, accidents involving children are likely to occur in daycare facilities. A 2010 National Hospital Ambulatory Care Survey revealed that around 13.6 million children under the age of 5 received some sort of medical treatment in the emergency room.
Who Needs Home Daycare Insurance?
Many states mandate that a home daycare facility must have liability insurance as part of their licensing requirements. Coverage plan options may vary depending on factors such as the number of children who attend your daycare center.
What Does Home Daycare Insurance Cover?
If your daycare business is larger than a certain size, you may potentially benefit from obtaining a commercial policy. This type of policy is not included in your home insurance policy and can often provide more extensive coverage.
Speak to a Business Insurance Broker
Don’t hesitate to speak to a daycare insurance agent to learn more about how you and your employees can be protected in the event of an incident. The process of fully understanding and navigating insurance forms, terminology, and policies can be challenging to go through alone. At Merchant Family Agency, one of our many agents will be happy to guide you through this process. Call us today at 407.707.6418 or request a quote online about our coverage options. We will make sure you have the right coverage for your unique situation.