Do Volunteers Need Insurance?

January 14, 2025

Accidents and mishaps can happen to volunteers in a workplace. What happens then? Should they have insurance?

From a slip-and-fall injury to accidental property damage, these situations can create financial and legal complications for both the volunteer and the organization they represent.

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Here’s where insurance for volunteers can come into play:

• A volunteer driving their own vehicle for a charity event is involved in a car accident.
• An attendee at an event run by volunteers trips over equipment, gets injured, and files a lawsuit.
• A volunteer unintentionally causes damage to a client’s property during a community project.

In cases like these, adequate insurance coverage can make all the difference, helping to lessen risks and protect everyone involved.

Types of insurance coverage for volunteers

Here are the most common types of insurance coverage relevant to volunteer work:

General liability insurance

General liability insurance is a cornerstone of protection for organizations working with volunteers. It provides coverage for claims related to third-party injuries (volunteer, member of the public, client/supplier) or third-party property damage. For example, if a volunteer accidentally spills coffee on expensive equipment at a community center, general liability insurance can help cover the cost of repairs or replacements.

Volunteer accident insurance

This type of insurance specifically covers injuries to by volunteers while performing their duties. It typically includes medical expenses, disability benefits, and accidental death coverage. Volunteer accident insurance ensures that volunteers don’t face out-of-pocket expenses if they’re injured while giving back.

Directors and Officers (D&O) insurance

For volunteers who serve on boards or committees, D&O insurance is a critical safeguard. It protects individuals against claims of mismanagement, breach of fiduciary duty, or other errors made in their official capacities. Without D&O insurance, these individuals could be personally liable for legal costs or damages.

Car insurance

Volunteers who use their personal vehicles for delivering meals or transporting people or supplies, should review their car insurance policies. While personal auto insurance may provide some coverage, it’s often limited. Organizations can supplement this with hired and non-owned auto insurance to ensure adequate protection for volunteers.

Professional liability insurance

Volunteers providing professional services, such as legal advice or medical care, should have professional liability insurance. This coverage, also known as errors and omissions insurance, protects against claims of negligence or inadequate work.

The organization’s responsibility

Organizations that rely on volunteers have a duty to protect both their volunteers and themselves. This involves taking steps to assess risks, get appropriate insurance coverage, and communicate clearly with volunteers about their protections and responsibilities.

Assessing risks

Every organization should conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards and liabilities associated with their volunteer activities. This helps determine the types of insurance coverage needed.

Providing training

Proper training can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and errors. Volunteers should receive clear instructions on their roles, safety procedures, and organizational policies.

Securing insurance

Organizations should work with insurance brokers to get the coverage they need. A tailored insurance plan can address the unique risks associated with specific volunteer activities.

Educating volunteers

Volunteers should be informed about the insurance coverage provided by the organization and any additional protections they may need to secure personally. For example, a volunteer using their own vehicle should confirm that their auto insurance policy covers the intended use.

Volunteers’ role in managing risks

While organizations play a key role in securing insurance, volunteers themselves can also take steps to protect their interests.

Understand the coverage

Volunteers should ask organizations about the insurance policies in place and how they’re covered. It’s important to know whether additional personal insurance is necessary.

Review personal insurance policies

Volunteers who drive, provide professional services, or handle valuable equipment should review their personal insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage. For instance, drivers might need to add a rider to their auto insurance for volunteer-related activities.

Follow safety protocols

It’s important to follow safety guidelines and organizational policies to help minimize risks. Volunteers should report any potential hazards or incidents immediately.

Key considerations for organizations and volunteers

When it comes to insurance, both organizations and volunteers must look at any coverage gaps and ensure comprehensive protection. Here are some key considerations:

Volunteer agreements

Organizations can use volunteer agreements to outline roles, responsibilities, and any insurance coverage provided. This document can help clarify expectations and reduce misunderstandings.

Regular policy reviews

Insurance needs can change over time, particularly as organizations grow or expand their volunteer programs. Regularly reviewing and updating policies ensures that coverage remains adequate.

Working with a broker

Insurance brokers specialize in assessing risks and recommending coverage tailored to specific needs. Their expertise can be invaluable in navigating complex insurance requirements.

The benefits of proper coverage

Having the right insurance in place benefits everyone involved in volunteer work. For organizations, it provides financial security and peace of mind, knowing they can handle unexpected claims. For volunteers, it ensures they’re protected from personal liability and financial strain in the event of an accident or injury.

Ultimately, insurance allows both organizations and volunteers to focus on what truly matters: making a positive impact in their communities.

Final thoughts

Volunteering is a rewarding experience, but it’s not without its risks. By addressing the need for insurance coverage, organizations and volunteers can create a safer environment for everyone involved.

If you’re unsure about your insurance needs, working with an experienced insurance broker can help ensure you’re adequately protected. A little preparation goes a long way in safeguarding the incredible work that volunteers do.