Summertime includes a number of holidays, from Memorial Day, to the 4th of July, and all the way up to Labor Day, which are typically celebrated with fireworks demonstrations. While most cities have huge professionally prepared fireworks displays, some people prefer to host a family barbecue followed by a fireworks show of their own. The problem with this is that although most fireworks can be lit and set off safely, they can’t really be controlled once they are launched into the air, leading to injuries, fires, and other damage.
With that said, does your homeowners insurance cover a “firework gone wrong” aftermath? It may depend on the circumstances. Let’s explore.
Fires and Other Damage
If your fireworks happen to set your house on fire, your insurance company will more than likely invoke your home insurance policy to pay for the repairs and clean up. If anyone else’s house caught fire, due to your fireworks display, your insurance will usually pay for their repairs as well, minus your deductible, of course.
Other situations, like nearby cars catching on fire, if they aren’t yours, could fall under your home liability insurance, in addition to your umbrella liability policy, if you have one. Your insurance company may pay for those repairs, as long as they meet the required criteria.
Personal Injuries
Fireworks can cause more than just fires, they can also blow off fingers, damage hands, or lead to broken bones if your guests are trying to get out of the way too quickly and hurt themselves. If you’re the one who’s injured, you can use your standard health insurance. Your home insurance policy won’t cover your personal medical bills. The same is true for the other people living in your home. They will have to use their health insurance.
However, if your guests or neighbors are the ones who are injured, things are different. Your liability and umbrella liability, if you have one, can cover the medical bills for your injured friends, should the insurance company find you at fault for them. Anything that happens to them on your property while setting off fireworks, including burns, slip and fall injuries from jumping out of the way, and more may be covered by your insurance.
Things That Aren’t Covered
This is where things get tricky. All of the above is assuming that you used fireworks that are legal in your state. If you brought in fireworks from another state that are illegal in your location, your insurance may not pay for anything. The same is true if you and your guests are found to be acting recklessly, like setting off fireworks while inebriated.
Things that are determined to be deliberate acts, like holding a firework in your hand when it explodes to see what happens or aiming fireworks at your neighbor’s home or garage on purpose, also aren’t covered by your insurance policies, so it’s best to be careful and mindful when creating your firework display.
Contact Spivey Insurance
If you need to check your homeowner’s insurance policies to ensure that damage from fireworks shows is covered, please contact Spivey Insurance. Our knowledgeable agents can help you review your policies, make any necessary additions, and answer any questions that you may have.
