March 12, 2024
Best Liquor Liability Insurance in Oregon
Category: Commercial
Choosing the best liquor liability insurance in Oregon is crucial for businesses that sell or serve alcohol, given the state’s strict Dram Shop Law. This type of insurance safeguards against legal and financial consequences arising from incidents involving intoxicated customers. Here’s a quick rundown of what you should look for and the top providers in the region:
Comprehensive protection including court costs and lawsuit damages
Specific scenarios like assault and battery, liquor license defense, and more
Prompt issue resolution
Local expertise in Oregon’s alcohol laws
Tailored advice and discounts
| Provider | Coverage Up To | Experience | Discounts Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mark Strauss | $5M | 20+ years | Yes |
| Leonard Adams Insurance | $3M | 30+ years | Up to 20% |
| LeDoux Insurance Agency | $5M | 50+ years | Up to 15% |
| Insurance Partners NW | $5M | 25 years | 10-15% |
| Ryan Hoffstot Insurance Agency | $5M | 20+ years | Up to 20% |
Assault and Battery Coverage: Helps if a drunk customer injures someone or causes damage.
Liquor License Defense: Pays for legal help if your license is at risk.
Employee Discrimination: Protects against claims related to alcohol service.
Non-owned Liquor Liability: Covers alcohol not owned by you, such as at private parties.
Ensure policies cover enough scenarios with high limits for your protection.
Choose companies that:
Resolve issues quickly and easily
Have knowledgeable and approachable agents
Provide good advice to avoid trouble
Are highly rated by customers for claim handling
Avoid companies with poor reputations for fairness or service.
Look for providers that:
Are experts on Oregon’s specific alcohol laws
Stay updated on legal changes affecting your business
Check if they offer:
General liability
Property insurance
Workers’ compensation
Umbrella insurance
Bundling can save you up to 15%. Also, ask about discounts for trained staff or safety equipment.
Coverage: Up to $5 million
Over 20 years helping bars, restaurants, and caterers
Known for unbiased advice and excellent customer service
Discounts for bundling and safety improvements
Coverage: Up to $3 million
Over 30 years of Oregon experience
Known for helpful, fast service
Up to 20% savings for multi-policy customers
Coverage: Up to $5 million
50+ years in business
Trusted for thorough service and risk management advice
Discounts up to 15%
Coverage: Up to $5 million
25 years serving Portland businesses
Personalized service from a smaller company
Discounts 10-15%
Coverage: Up to $5 million
Over 20 years of Oregon experience
Quick, friendly service
Up to 20% discounts
| Provider | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Mark Strauss | 20+ years experience, high coverage | Fewer discount options |
| Leonard Adams Insurance | 30+ years experience, up to 20% savings | Lower coverage limit ($3M) |
| LeDoux Insurance Agency | 50+ years, high coverage, good discounts | Liquor insurance not main focus |
| Insurance Partners NW | 25 years, personalized service, decent discounts | Smaller company |
| Ryan Hoffstot Insurance | 20+ years, high coverage, great discounts | Less focus on bars and restaurants |
Bar Fight Leads to Brain Damage
At O’Malley’s Bar in Portland, a fight caused permanent brain injury. The bar’s insurance covered the $2 million settlement.
Underage Customer Crashes After Leaving Restaurant
A 17-year-old was served without ID, causing a car accident. Insurance covered a $350,000 settlement.
Caterer Sued After Wedding Guest Drives Drunk
A wedding guest caused an accident despite responsible service. The catering company’s insurance covered legal fees and settlements.
Average claim in the U.S.: $17,000+
Oregon lawsuits can cost $100,000 – $250,000+ including:
Lawyer fees
Settlements
Medical bills
Lost income
Increased insurance premiums
Insurance covers all legal costs, settlements, lost income during lawsuits, and helps your business survive costly claims.
Local Restaurant: Avoided closure after serving an underage customer who caused an accident costing $200,000+.
Bar: Stayed open after a costly fight with $500,000+ expenses covered by insurance.
If you operate a business serving alcohol in Oregon, picking the right liquor liability insurance is critical. Keep these points in mind:
Coverage: Aim for $1M–$5M limits covering lawsuits, legal fees, and incidents.
Customer Service: Choose a responsive and helpful provider.
Expertise: Select insurers who understand Oregon’s alcohol laws.
Savings: Look for discounts by bundling policies or improving safety.
Speak with brokers or agents, provide details about your business operations, and get customized advice. This will help protect your business against costly risks related to alcohol service.
