Security cameras can prove the business acted appropriately during an altercation, potential sale to a minor, refusing service to an intoxicated patron, or the legitimacy of a slip and fall.

Most liability insurance carriers do not offer premium credit to recognize the advantage of properly utilizing security cameras. One company that does make such an offer is Illinois Casualty Company (ICC). This insurer has found that recorded images can greatly reduce claims handling costs when establishing the innocence of the insured. The company passes this cost savings on to those who use security cameras and save the recorded images.

Licensees are strongly encouraged to use cameras both inside and outside the premises. Licensees are also encouraged to keep recorded images for the statute of limitations in their state, generally for up to two years. With new technology and cloud access, this storage ability is attainable and will help protect businesses if a claim should arise.

Security Camera Tips:

• Keep footage as long as possible, ideally for at least two years in Pennsylvania
• Place interior cameras not only above your cash register and front door, but down hallways, seating areas, exits, and dance floors
• Place exterior cameras facing doors, exits, beer gardens, and if possible, covering as much of the parking lot as possible
• If the police request camera footage, give them a copy of the footage and keep the original for yourself and your insurance carrier

Editor’s Note: ICC is the exclusive preferred liability insurance company of the Pennsylvania Licensed Beverage and Tavern Association. If any of our Members are already insured by ICC and have security cameras installed on their premises, contact your ICC agent to make sure you are receiving the premium credit. If you are not with ICC, consider getting an ICC quote through on our of preferred insurance agents that can be found at https://pataverns.com/preferred-vendors/.  Or visit www.ilcasco.com/find-an-agent to locate an ICC agent in your area.