Fishing Piers

What Does GL Code 43754 Cover?

ISO GL class code 43754 covers businesses operating fishing piers, including their maintenance, public access, and associated activities like bait and tackle sales or small concessions. This code classifies operations that provide recreational fishing opportunities to the public, often involving structures extending over water.

Who Uses This Class Code?

This code applies to entities that own, operate, or manage fishing piers, such as municipal parks departments, private pier operators, coastal resorts with pier access, and marinas offering public fishing facilities. It includes businesses that generate revenue from pier access fees, equipment rentals, or related retail sales on the pier.

Common GL Claims for This Class

Common GL claims for fishing piers include slip-and-fall incidents due to wet or uneven surfaces, injuries from fishing hooks or lines, and drowning incidents if safety measures are inadequate. Property damage claims can also arise from severe weather events impacting the pier structure.

Coverage Tips for Code 43754

• Maintain meticulous records of all pier inspections, repairs, and maintenance activities to demonstrate due diligence in preventing accidents and defending against liability claims.
• Ensure prominent and clear signage is displayed regarding pier rules, potential hazards (e.g., slippery surfaces, depth changes, fishing line disposal), and 'fish at your own risk' disclaimers to mitigate liability.
• Verify your policy explicitly addresses liability arising from watercraft collisions with the pier or injuries to individuals on the pier caused by passing boats, as this can be a common exposure.
• Given Florida's climate, review your property and liability policies for specific coverage related to hurricane damage and business interruption, and have a clear emergency plan for pier closure and evacuation.