When more people visit farms, farmers need more coverageAgribusiness. Agri-tourism. Agri-tainment. Terms unfamiliar to us a few years ago now are part of our everyday language. And the activities they describe are becoming an everyday occurrence that help boost farm income. Increasing the public’s exposure to farming can greatly expand its understanding of agriculture. But it also expands a farmer’s exposure to liability claims. People who aren’t ordinarily on the farm have a knack for getting hurt, becoming ill and experiencing other problems from inherent dangers that farmers work around daily. Unfortunately, when a farm visitor has a mishap, the farm owner often gets the bill. "The liability provisions in a standard farm policy were built around traditional farm practices of raising crops and livestock, which are sold on a wholesale basis," said Ryan Albers, senior product specialist with Nationwide Agribusiness Insurance. "When other ventures take place that attract the public – like tours, pick-your-own operations, nursery garden stores and even larger farm markets – then the farmer needs commercial liability coverage to protect the family’s assets," Albers said. New ‘Farm General Liability’ coverage If the farm policy is with Nationwide Agribusiness Insurance, which Ohio Farm Bureau endorses, the agent can now tailor a new farm liability policy to cover business activities related to the farm operation. Albers said this additional coverage "can be included with other policies on one bill with the same convenient payment options." "We are pleased to support farm families by offering coverage that was not available in the past," Albers said. "Without Farm Bureau’s help and support, this program would not have been possible." Albers suggested contacting your Nationwide agent to discuss liability coverage if your farm includes activities such as those listed below.
Not an exhaustive list. Coverage for some activities may not be available in all states. | |