Protecting Your Film Set: The Importance of Third Party Property Damage Insurance and Safety Protocols

3rd Party Property Damage

Protecting Your Film Set: The Importance of Third Party Property Damage Insurance and Safety Protocols

When it comes to making a movie, film insurance is an important aspect that cannot be ignored. This insurance covers a wide range of potential losses that can occur during the course of filming. One such aspect of film insurance is third party property damage insurance, which is designed to protect against damage caused to third-party property during the filming process.

Third party property damage insurance is a type of liability insurance that covers damages that occur to property that belongs to third parties. This insurance is important for film makers as it covers any damage caused to locations used during filming, including damage caused to the set. If a film set is damaged during the course of filming, this insurance will provide financial compensation for the damages.

The coverage provided by third party property damage insurance varies depending on the policy. Typically, it will cover damages caused by accidents such as fire, water damage, and other types of property damage that occur during the course of filming. However, it is important to review the policy to ensure that it covers all potential risks associated with filming.

In addition to having third party property damage insurance, there are several steps that filmmakers can take to protect their film set. The first step is to conduct a thorough location scout before filming. This will help identify any potential hazards or risks associated with the location and allow filmmakers to take steps to mitigate these risks.

During filming, it is important to have a designated safety officer on set to monitor the production and ensure that everyone is following safety protocols. It is also important to have appropriate safety equipment on hand, such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and protective gear.

After filming is complete, it is important to conduct a thorough review of the location to ensure that there is no damage to the property. This can include a walkthrough of the location to identify any potential damage caused during the course of filming. If any damage is identified, it should be documented and reported to the insurance company as soon as possible.

In conclusion, film insurance is an important aspect of making a movie, and third party property damage insurance is a key component of this insurance. This coverage provides financial protection against damages caused to third-party property during filming, including film sets. Filmmakers can take steps to protect their film set by conducting a thorough location scout, having a designated safety officer on set, and reviewing the location after filming is complete. By taking these steps and having appropriate insurance coverage, filmmakers can protect themselves and their production from potential financial losses.

Step-by-Step Guide to Handling Accidents on Film Sets: Ensuring Safety in Filmmaking

Film Set Injury

Step-by-Step Guide to Handling Accidents on Film Sets: Ensuring Safety in Filmmaking

Filmmaking can be an exciting and exhilarating experience, but it can also be dangerous if proper safety measures are not taken. Accidents can happen on film sets, and it's important to know what to do should an actor or crew member get hurt. In this blog, we'll provide you with a step-by-step guide on what to do in case of an accident on a film set.

Step 1: Stop Filming Immediately

If someone gets hurt on set, the first thing you need to do is stop filming immediately. This will prevent any further injuries or accidents from occurring. Call for help and make sure everyone is safe.

Step 2: Call Emergency Services

The next step is to call emergency services. Depending on the severity of the injury, you may need to call an ambulance or the police. Be sure to provide the emergency operator with your location, the nature of the injury, and the number of people who are hurt.

Step 3: Assess the Situation

Once you have called for help, assess the situation. Determine the severity of the injury and whether anyone else is in danger. If the injured person is conscious, ask them what happened and how they feel. This information can be useful for the medical team when they arrive.

Step 4: Provide First Aid

If you have any medical training, provide first aid to the injured person. This could include applying pressure to a wound, administering CPR, or providing basic care until medical help arrives. If you are not trained in first aid, it's best to wait for the professionals to arrive.

Step 5: Notify the Production Company

The production company should be notified of the accident as soon as possible. They will need to take steps to address any safety concerns and may need to speak to the injured person or their family. This is also important for insurance purposes.

Step 6: Complete an Incident Report

Once the injured person has received medical attention, it's important to complete an incident report. This document should include details of the accident, the injury sustained, and any actions taken to provide first aid. This information will be useful for the production company and for insurance purposes.

Step 7: Review and Improve Safety Protocols

Finally, it's important to review and improve safety protocols. Determine what caused the accident and take steps to prevent it from happening again. This could include providing additional safety equipment, changing filming procedures, or increasing training for crew members.

In conclusion, accidents can happen on film sets, but it's important to be prepared and know what to do in case of an emergency. By following these steps, you can ensure the safety of everyone on set and take the necessary steps to prevent future accidents. Remember, safety should always be the top priority on a film set.

Protecting Rented Vehicles on Film Sets: A Must for Film Makers

FILM AUTO Coverage

Protecting Rented Vehicles on Film Sets

Film productions can be costly, and one of the most important types of insurance that film makers need to carry is insurance for rented vehicles used on set. Production companies typically rent various vehicles for their productions, including cars, trucks, and other types of vehicles. These rented vehicles are often critical components of the production process, and the production company needs to take adequate measures to protect them from potential risks on set. In this blog post, we'll explore how film makers can protect rented vehicles on a film set.

Why is Insurance for Rented Vehicles Important?

Rented vehicles are often critical components of the production process, and they can be expensive to rent and repair. In addition, rented vehicles are at risk of damage or theft on set, and the production company may be liable for any damages or losses that occur. Without adequate insurance, film makers could be facing significant financial losses due to damage or theft of rented vehicles.

How Can Film Makers Protect Rented Vehicles on a Film Set?

Insure the Rented Vehicles: Film makers should consider purchasing insurance specifically for rented vehicles on a film set. This type of insurance provides coverage for damages or losses to rented vehicles, and it can help protect the production company from financial losses due to damage or theft of the rented vehicles.

1. Hire Experienced Drivers: It's important to hire experienced drivers who are qualified to operate the rented vehicles safely. This can help reduce the risk of accidents or damage to the rented vehicles.

2. Conduct Regular Inspections: Regular inspections of rented vehicles can help identify any issues or potential risks that could lead to damage or accidents. Film makers should conduct inspections before and after each use of the rented vehicles to ensure that they are in good condition.

3. Properly Secure the Vehicles: When not in use, rented vehicles should be properly secured to prevent theft or damage. This includes using secure parking areas or locking the vehicles when not in use.

4. Follow Safety Protocols: Film makers should follow safety protocols to help prevent accidents or damage to the rented vehicles. This includes following traffic laws, using proper equipment and safety gear, and properly storing equipment and props to prevent damage to the rented vehicles.

In conclusion, protecting rented vehicles on a film set is critical for film makers to avoid financial losses due to damage or theft of the rented vehicles. By insuring the rented vehicles, hiring experienced drivers, conducting regular inspections, properly securing the vehicles, and following safety protocols, film makers can protect their rented vehicles and ensure a successful production.

Understanding the Importance of Properly Classifying Workers: 1099 vs. W-2 in Film Insurance

1099 VS. W-2 EMPLOYEE

Understanding the Importance of Properly Classifying Workers: 1099 vs. W-2 in Film Insurance

When it comes to hiring workers for a film production, one important decision that producers must make is whether to hire them as 1099 independent contractors or W-2 employees. This decision can have a significant impact on the production’s insurance coverage, including workers compensation insurance. In this blog post, we will discuss the difference between 1099 and W-2 employees and the consequences of misclassifying workers.

First, let's discuss the difference between a 1099 and W-2 employee. A W-2 employee is a traditional employee who is on the company's payroll and receives a regular salary or hourly wage. The employer withholds taxes from the employee's paycheck and provides them with a W-2 form at the end of the year for tax reporting purposes. On the other hand, a 1099 independent contractor is self-employed and responsible for paying their own taxes. They receive a 1099 form from the employer at the end of the year if they earned over $600.

Now, let's discuss workers compensation insurance. Workers compensation insurance provides coverage for employees who are injured or become ill while performing work-related duties. This insurance covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. In most states, employers are required by law to carry workers compensation insurance for their employees.

The issue of workers compensation insurance becomes significant when it comes to independent contractors. In general, independent contractors are not covered by an employer's workers compensation insurance policy. Instead, they are responsible for their own insurance coverage. However, there are some cases where an independent contractor may be considered an employee for workers compensation purposes.

The determination of whether an independent contractor is an employee for workers compensation purposes is based on several factors. These factors include the level of control the employer has over the worker's activities, the worker's degree of independence, and the nature of the work being performed. If an independent contractor is found to be an employee for workers compensation purposes, then the employer is responsible for providing workers compensation coverage for them.

Misclassifying an independent contractor as an employee can have severe consequences for the employer. Employers who misclassify workers may face fines, penalties, and other legal consequences. In addition, misclassified workers may be entitled to benefits and protections that they would not have received as independent contractors.

Unattended Vehicle Exclusion Endorsement: A Crucial Aspect of Film Insurance for Producers and Rental Houses

Unattended Vehicle Exclusion EndT.

A Crucial Aspect of Film Insurance for Producers and Rental Houses.

As a film producer, it's important to ensure that your production is properly insured to protect your assets and minimize your liability. One aspect of film insurance that many producers may overlook is the unattended vehicle exclusion endorsement. In this blog post, we'll explore what the unattended vehicle exclusion endorsement means, and why more rental houses that rent equipment to film sets require that this endorsement is removed.

What is the Unattended Vehicle Exclusion Endorsement?

The unattended vehicle exclusion endorsement is a common exclusion in many film insurance policies. This endorsement states that the policy does not cover loss or damage to any equipment left in a vehicle that is left unattended, even if it is within the vicinity of the production set.

Why Do Rental Houses Require the Unattended Vehicle Exclusion to be Removed?

Many rental houses that rent equipment to film sets require the unattended vehicle exclusion endorsement to be removed from the film insurance policy. The reason for this is simple: rental houses are often liable for damage or loss to their equipment, even if it occurs on a film set. By requiring the unattended vehicle exclusion to be removed, rental houses can ensure that their equipment is covered by the production company's insurance policy, even if it is stolen or damaged while unattended.

In addition, many rental houses require proof of insurance that covers their equipment, even when it is not in use. This means that the production company must have insurance that covers the rental equipment, even when it is left unattended. By removing the unattended vehicle exclusion endorsement, the production company can ensure that they have the coverage needed to satisfy the rental house's insurance requirements.

What Can Producers Do to Ensure Proper Coverage?

To ensure proper coverage and compliance with rental house requirements, producers should carefully review their film insurance policies to ensure that the unattended vehicle exclusion endorsement has been removed. Producers should also confirm with rental houses what type of insurance is required for their equipment and ensure that their policy provides adequate coverage.

In addition, producers should take steps to minimize the risk of theft or damage to rental equipment while on set. This includes ensuring that equipment is properly secured and stored when not in use, and taking precautions to prevent theft or damage, such as hiring security personnel.

In conclusion, the unattended vehicle exclusion endorsement is a common exclusion in film insurance policies that can leave production companies liable for loss or damage to equipment that are left unattended. By removing this endorsement and taking steps to minimize the risk of theft or damage, producers can ensure proper coverage and compliance with rental house requirements.

Film Insurance - Errors & Omissions Insurance

FILM E&O Insurance

Why do you need and why do distributors ask for it?

Filmmaking can be a risky business, and one of the most important types of insurance that film productions need to carry is Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance. E&O insurance protects filmmakers against a range of potential liabilities that can arise during the production and distribution of a film. In this blog post, we'll explore why films are required to carry E&O insurance, what E&O covers, and the importance of additional coverage for film titles and music.

Why Films Are Required to Carry E&O Insurance

E&O insurance is a requirement for most film productions, as it provides coverage for a range of potential liabilities that can arise during the production and distribution of a film. Specifically, E&O insurance protects filmmakers from legal claims alleging defamation, invasion of privacy, copyright infringement, and other types of legal issues that can arise in the film industry. Without E&O insurance, filmmakers would be at risk of significant financial losses due to legal fees, damages, and other costs associated with these types of claims.

What Does E&O Cover?

E&O insurance covers a range of potential liabilities that can arise during the production and distribution of a film. These include:

1. Defamation: E&O insurance protects filmmakers against claims of defamation, which can occur when a person is portrayed in a negative light in a film.

2. Invasion of Privacy: E&O insurance protects filmmakers against claims of invasion of privacy, which can occur when a person's privacy is violated in a film.

3. Copyright Infringement: E&O insurance protects filmmakers against claims of copyright infringement, which can occur when copyrighted material is used without permission in a film.

4. Other Legal Issues: E&O insurance also provides coverage for a range of other legal issues that can arise during the production and distribution of a film, such as breach of contract and breach of implied contract.

What Does Film Title Coverage Protect the Production Company From?

Film title coverage is an important type of insurance that protects the production company from legal claims related to the use of a film title. Film title coverage protects the production company from claims of trademark infringement, which can occur when a film title is similar to or identical to an existing trademark. Without film title coverage, the production company would be at risk of significant financial losses due to legal fees, damages, and other costs associated with these types of claims.

What Does Music Coverage Protect the Production Company From?

Music coverage is another important type of insurance that protects the production company from legal claims related to the use of music in a film. Music coverage protects the production company from claims of copyright infringement, which can occur when copyrighted music is used without permission in a film. Without music coverage, the production company would be at risk of significant financial losses due to legal fees, damages, and other costs associated with these types of claims.

In conclusion, E&O insurance is a critical type of insurance that film productions need to carry in order to protect themselves from a range of potential legal liabilities. Film title coverage and music coverage are also important types of insurance that provide additional protection against specific types of legal claims. By carrying the right types of insurance, filmmakers can protect themselves from financial losses and legal issues that can arise during the production and distribution of a film.

Lights, Camera, Safety: Prioritizing Safety on Film Sets.

FILM SET SAFETY

Filmset safety should be top priority on any film set.

Filmmaking is a highly collaborative art form that involves a team of professionals working together to bring a story to life. From the actors on screen to the camera crew behind the scenes, each member of the team plays a vital role in creating a successful film. However, amidst the hustle and bustle of the film set, safety can often be overlooked. It is imperative that safety is a top priority on every film set, not only to protect the cast and crew but also to protect the location and camera equipment.

The safety of the cast and crew is of utmost importance on a film set. With a variety of equipment and machinery in use, there is always a risk of accidents occurring. It is the responsibility of the production team to ensure that all safety precautions are taken to minimize the risk of injury. This includes ensuring that all crew members are trained and familiar with the equipment they are using, and that all safety protocols are in place and being followed. For example, if a scene requires the use of pyrotechnics or stunts, it is essential that a qualified and experienced professional oversees the process to ensure that everything is done safely.

Protecting the location is also critical when shooting a film. Filmmakers often use public spaces or private property to create their sets, and it is essential that these locations are treated with respect and care. This means ensuring that all safety measures are in place to prevent damage to the location, and that everything is restored to its original state once filming is complete. The production team should also take into account any potential hazards that may arise from filming in certain locations, such as on a busy street or near a body of water, and take appropriate precautions to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

In addition to protecting the cast and crew and the location, it is also important to protect the camera equipment. Cameras, lenses, and other equipment are often expensive and fragile, and any damage can result in delays and additional costs for the production. It is crucial that all equipment is handled with care and that proper storage and transportation measures are in place to prevent any damage from occurring. This includes using protective cases, keeping equipment out of extreme temperatures, and ensuring that all crew members are trained in how to handle and use the equipment properly.

In conclusion, safety should always be a top priority on any film set. It is essential to protect the cast and crew, the location, and the camera equipment to ensure that the production runs smoothly and without incident. By taking the necessary precautions and following established safety protocols, filmmakers can create a safe and secure environment for everyone involved. Not only does this help to ensure the success of the film, but it also ensures that everyone can go home safely at the end of the day.

Film Insurance - Stunt Coverage

STUNTS INSURANCE

In our latest blog article, we discuss the importance of including stunt insurance as part of your production insurance package.

When planning a film or production that includes stunts, it's essential to ensure that stunt insurance is part of your production insurance package. Stunt work can be extremely dangerous, and accidents can happen even with the most experienced and skilled professionals. Without adequate coverage, a single mishap could potentially result in financial ruin for your production company.

Stunt insurance is specifically designed to cover the risks associated with performing dangerous stunts. It provides coverage for the stunt performers, as well as the production company, in the event of injuries or damage to equipment or property. Stunt insurance typically covers a wide range of risks, including falls, crashes, explosions, and other dangerous stunts.

If you're planning to include stunts in your production, it's important to contact your insurance agent and make sure that stunts are included and covered under your production insurance policy. This is because many standard production insurance policies may not cover the risks associated with stunt work, or may only provide limited coverage.

By ensuring that stunt insurance is included in your production insurance package, you can have peace of mind knowing that you and your team are protected in case of accidents or injuries. Stunt insurance can cover a variety of expenses, including medical bills, lost wages, and legal fees. It can also cover damage to equipment or property that may result from a stunt gone wrong.

It's important to note that each stunt is unique, and the risks associated with each stunt can vary greatly. Because of this, it's essential to work with a qualified insurance agent who has experience with stunt insurance. They can help you determine the specific coverage needed for your production, and can work with you to find the right policy to fit your needs and budget.

In conclusion, if you're planning to include stunts in your film or production, it's essential to make sure that stunt insurance is part of your production insurance package. Don't wait until it's too late – contact your insurance agent today to ensure that you and your team are properly covered in case of accidents or injuries. Remember, it only takes one mishap to potentially ruin your production company, so make sure you're adequately protected.

Film Investor Insurance - Accounts Receivable

Is one of your largest assets unprotected?

For Film Production, Sales Agents, and Distributor Companies Accounts Receivable typically represents 80% of a company's assets and is the most vulnerable to unexpected loss. Accounts Receivable Insurance can protect you from losses and empower safe top line growth. 

As Filmmakers you always focus on Production Insurance to protect the cast & crew. Errors & Omissions Insurance to protect the distribution and release of your film. What about protecting the money that is owed to you on distribution contracts? Let our team at Akker help you with building a proper accounts receivable insurance policy. 

Accounts Receivable Insurance Advantage

• Grow sales safely, domestically and abroad, to new and existing customers

• Protect your business from risk of customer default and catastrophic loss

• Reduce bad-debt reserves

• Obtain greater access to funding and secure better finance options

• Offer safe, open terms to your customers overseas with no need for letters of credit

Contact us today at www.akkerins.com or stan@akkerins.com let our underwriting team build a proper coverage for you. 

Akker, LLC - Insurance experts for the film industry - Production Insurance, Errors & Omissions and now Film Accounts Receivable Insurance