When you operate a tattoo shop, your goal is to make your clients happy while bringing in a profit. On most days, the idea of a tattoo lawsuit will be the last thing on your mind. Unfortunately, encounters with clients can quickly turn sour when accidents occur. In cases where a tattoo accident results in an injury and/or financial loss for your client, you may even face an expensive lawsuit against your tattoo artist and tattoo shop. Here are five scenarios that can lead to a lawsuit for tattoo and piercing shops.
Allergic reactions to pigment or other substances used.
In rare cases, clients can have an allergic reaction to the pigment you use in your tattoos, as well as substances you use to prepare the skin before beginning your work. If the allergic reaction is severe, the client may file a lawsuit against your tattoo shop to recover compensation.
Accidental injury during tattoo application.
Tattoo application requires the use of needles and other equipment that could be dangerous if they malfunction or are not used properly. Even if you and all of your employees are well trained, accidents can still happen. If someone accidentally injures a client while applying a tattoo, the client may file a lawsuit against the tattoo shop.
Unsatisfactory tattoos.
Can you sue a tattoo artist for bad work? To keep it short, yes. Tattoos result in permanent changes to the client’s appearance. Although tattoo removal services are available for people with unwanted tattoos, clients who end up with a tattoo that doesn’t meet their expectations may file claims against your business. Even if you are able to fight this claim successfully, you will still incur expensive legal fees along the way.
Infections.
Although most tattoos are completed without serious complications, infections can sometimes develop. The risk of infection is higher if the equipment you use isn’t properly sterilized, or if your employees fail to clean their hands properly before beginning work. Regardless of the cause, infections can lead to serious consequences for the client, and many clients decide to file lawsuits after acquiring an infection. In fact, a majority of infections are caused by neglecting proper aftercare instructions and protocols.
Slip and falls.
Another common type of incident that may lead to a lawsuit against your tattoo shop is a slip and fall. If a client or a visitor to your shop trips over a cord or slips on spilled liquid, for example, the individual may sustain injuries. In many cases, people who are injured in slip and fall cases decide to file claims against the tattoo shop in hopes of recovering compensation for medical bills and other expenses.
In order to protect your tattoo shop from losses related to these lawsuits, you need to invest in appropriate tattoo insurance policies. Otherwise, you may find yourself facing an expensive lawsuit that could result in significant financial loss or even bankruptcy for your business.
Key Takeaways
- Tattoo shops face unique risks that expose them to the possibility of lawsuits.
- Clients and other visitors may file lawsuits because of tattoo negligence, which includes infections, unsatisfactory work, accidental injuries during tattoo application, slip and falls or allergic reactions.
- Tattoo shops can protect themselves from loss related to lawsuits and tattoo compensation claims by investing in an adequate tattoo shop insurance policy.
Contact Marine Agency
If you own and operate a tattoo shop, finding the right insurance policy is essential. At Marine Agency, we understand how important proper tattoo studio coverage is to your growing business. With our help, you can compare all of your options and find the policy that’s perfect for you. We will also help you make any necessary changes to your coverage as your business’ needs evolve over time. Please call Marine Agency today to get started.
