Serving Columbia, IL, we’ve witnessed mornings where the day’s first customer never makes it inside—because they’ve slipped on black ice in the parking lot. We’ve seen thawed afternoon puddles freeze solid by closing time, catching an employee off guard on their walk to the car. We’ve even seen roof snow drop in one heavy sheet, denting a vehicle seconds after the owner parked. At Taake Insurance Agency, we understand these moments aren’t rare accidents—they’re predictable winter traps waiting for the unprepared.

Coverage That Matches Winter’s Brand of Risk

Cold months bring their own unique liability challenges. It’s not just slip-and-falls—it’s falling ice, low-visibility fender benders on your property, and even claims from damaged vehicles parked near roof edges. A standard policy may not fully account for these seasonal hazards, especially if your business involves customer foot traffic or outdoor inventory. That’s why Taake Insurance Agency works with business owners in Columbia, IL, to fine-tune coverage before the first freeze, ensuring it’s ready for both common mishaps and rare disasters winter can deliver.

Practical Defenses That Hold Up in a Claim

Clear snow and ice early—and keep at it all day when storms linger. Use grit, salt, or sand where customers and staff walk. Block access to areas under heavy icicles or snow-loaded eaves. Inside, rotate mats before they saturate, and have staff check entrances hourly. Most importantly, document everything—photos, timestamps, and maintenance logs. In the event of a claim, this record can be the difference between a covered incident and an expensive denial.

Winter in Columbia will always bring cold, but it doesn’t have to bring costly claims. Pair strong coverage with smart, visible safety habits, and the season becomes a challenge you’re ready to meet head-on.