How to Prevent Lawn Mower Accidents

Lawn mowers are essential yard maintenance tools, but they can also be dangerous and lead to severe injuries. According to an American Journal of Emergency Medicine study, lawn mower accidents cause an average of 85,000 injuries annually in the United States. With that in mind, it’s critical to practice the following safety tips to prevent lawn mower accidents:

• Check that a push mower is the correct equipment for the task. Also, only operate a mower in daylight.
• Never operate a push mower you haven’t been trained to use. Keep in mind that certain push mowers may have additional controls and hazards.
• Ensure that you are in the right state of mind to operate a push mower. Never use a mower if you are fatigued or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Inspect the push mower before each use for loose parts and potential damage. Pay special attention to the motor, spark plug, nuts and bolts, blades, handle and safety devices (e.g., the kill switch). If you are using an electric push mower, inspect any associated cords, plugs or wires as well.
• Check that the push mower has no fluid leakage concerns or debris buildup (e.g., grass, leaves or grease). Repair any fluid leaks and clean off debris before use.
• Confirm that you have all the personal protective equipment (PPE) necessary for operating a push mower. This includes safety glasses, heavy-duty gloves, hearing protection and nonslip, steel-toe boots. Further, ensure that you know how to use all PPE correctly.
• Wear full-length, well-fitting clothing to avoid exposing your skin to debris or getting your clothing tangled in the mower. Tie back long hair and remove any jewelry as well.
• Prepare the area where you plan to use the push mower. Remove excess debris or objects in your path. Take note of potential hazards in the area and be sure that people or animals are at a safe distance.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Lawn Mower Accidents?

Homeowners insurance policies typically cover a range of incidents that may occur on your property, including accidents involving a lawn mower. However, it’s important to note that coverage can vary depending on your specific policy and insurance provider. In general, homeowners insurance may provide coverage for the following aspects of lawn mower accidents:

• Property damage—If you accidentally damage someone else’s property while operating a lawn mower, such as a neighbor’s fence or vehicle, your homeowners insurance may help cover the cost of repairs or replacement up to the limits of your policy.
• Personal liability—If someone is injured due to a lawn mower accident on your property, homeowners insurance typically provides coverage for their medical expenses and legal fees if you are sued for negligence. This coverage may extend to injuries suffered by visitors, such as guests or neighbors, or even passersby if the accident occurs near the property.

To determine what kinds of lawn mower risks may be covered under your specific homeowners policy, speak with your agent.

Contact Eric Dodge Insurance Agency to learn more about homeowners insurance benefits, and how it can provide protection for unexpected incidents.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.