Mass demonstrations, protests, and strikes are on the rise in many urban areas of the U.S. Civil unrest events inevitably increase the potential risk of business disruptions and can be triggered by occurrences as diverse as natural disasters, economic downturns, military conflicts, pandemics, jury verdicts, discord between communities and local law enforcement, government policies, new legislation, and professional sporting events.

Civil Unrest: Protecting Your Practice

Most public gatherings, including protests, are peaceful. However, episodes of civil unrest can erupt from congregations that begin as calm events but escalate out of the control of organizers. This shift from gathering to rioting can result in personal injuries, fatalities, property damage, loss of business activity, disruption of supply chains, and a reduction in access to banking institutions. 

The Importance of a Business Continuity or Crisis Plan 

Protestors may target businesses to steal property, gain publicity, or exact some perceived form of revenge. The controlled substances held within veterinary practices may be a target for those who are looting and rioting. It is important to understand that the police, fire, and other emergency services will likely be overwhelmed. Emergency calls will be addressed based on a system of prioritization, and areas may be deemed off-limits or without law enforcement support.

Civil unrest also can result in curfews, cessation of public transportation, road closures, and loss of telecommunications or power – all of which can lead to significant business interruptions. Having a business continuity or crisis plan in place can help a veterinary practice emerge from such events more successfully.

Preparing Employees for Civil Unrest

Employees can practice one important behavior that might make a significant difference in keeping themselves, their colleagues, and their organizations safe — and that’s situational awareness. Simply put, that means being vigilant and increasing awareness of one’s surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings, make observations, and draw appropriate conclusions. Learn to key in on the unusual or on someone or something that seems out of place. 

Preparing for Insurance Claims during Civil Unrest

In the wake of civil unrest, you may wish to file insurance claims related to the incident. To make this process as easy as possible, consider taking the following steps:

• Store vital records such as insurance policies, contact lists, and financial and property records in both hard copy and electronic formats in multiple locations for ease of access.
• Prepare to capture potential loss information and additional costs associated from the event, including temporary repairs, extra expenses, and business interruption loss of income costs.
• Take photographs or videos of the facilities and assets before and after any damage.
• Prepare to file claims as quickly as possible.
• Contact your broker for additional assistance.

Insurance Coverages for Civil Unrest

From business interruptions to property damage and even personal injury, civil unrest can affect a veterinary practice in different ways. For each situation, a different type of insurance may apply. It is best to speak with an insurance expert to learn about the coverages available to your business and create a coverage plan designed for the unique needs of your practice.

Protect What Matters Most

Make sure you have the right insurance coverages and a crisis response plan in place.

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