Lawn mower Safety Tips: How to Reduce Home Insurance Claims from Careless Accidents

Lawnmower accidents happen more often than most people realize. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission says 800 children get hit by mowers each year. Of those children, 600 of them require an amputation. Every year, 75 people die as a result of accidents involving lawn mowers and riding mowers. 

The risks are evident, but there are steps you can take to minimize those risks.

Does Home Insurance Cover Lawnmower Accidents?

Most home insurance will cover injuries from lawnmowers to third parties. This means that your family is usually not covered by your home insurance plan. Your health insurance may provide this coverage, though. Homeowners insurance may, however, cover others like neighbors.

Damage the mower causes to others' property is often covered by your liability coverage. Talk to your home insurance provider to make sure you know what damages the policy covers.

How to Minimize Safety Risks from Lawnmowers

All lawnmower users need to ensure everyone is safe when a riding mower or operating a push mower. It is also important to store this equipment safely and out of the reach of children.

These tips can help keep your loved ones safe:

• Never allow children to come in contact with lawnmowers. Do not allow them to play outdoors while you are cutting the grass. They should never ride as a passenger on a mower, either.
• Read the owner’s manual and understand the proper way to use your mower. Follow all safety requirements and guidelines each time you use your mower.
• Dress properly. This usually includes wearing safety glasses or wraparound sunglasses. You’ll also want to wear protective shoes and long pants. This provides a layer of protection you need.
• Walk around the yard before mowing. Look for potential objects that the lawnmower could throw or sling into the yard. Remove any wood chips, twigs, or other objects from the area.
• When operating on hills or around corners, take your time. Make sure you take every step possible to use the mower in a safe fashion.

Lawnmower safety is a priority for every homeowner. You may not want to spend the extra few minutes checking the function of the mower and inspecting the lawn. However, doing so can help prevent risks, including those related to injury to you or your family. 

Moreso, lawnmowers can also do damage to your home when operated improperly. If that happens, your home insurance may help to cover some of your losses.