A combustible mix of alcohol, open flames and dense traffic, to name a few factors, can make tailgates ripe for costly accidents and injuries. In many cases, the right insurance coverage can spare you from paying for these mishaps on your own.

1. You accidentally grill the car

Covered by: Auto insurance

The play by play: Like end zones and excessive-celebration penalties, grilling and tailgating just go together. But whether you get overzealous with the lighter fluid or accidentally leave hot coals in your trunk, car fires are a looming threat.

2. An opposing fan vandalizes your vehicle

Covered by: Auto insurance

The play by play: Ideally, tailgate rivalries would never escalate beyond playful barbs and spirited debates. But the risk of opposing fans, say, spray-painting their team’s name onto your bumper may be another reason to add comprehensive insurance to your auto policy. This coverage will pay to repair damage stemming from vandalism, riots and civil disturbances, among other things, minus your deductible.

3. You give your buddies food poisoning

Covered by: Homeowners, renters and condo insurance

The play by play: Without ready access to refrigeration, hand-washing stations and other kitchen conveniences, food safety is a major tailgating concern. If you happen to be helming the grill when a bad batch of chicken wings or brats circulates to the crowd, those who get sick might sue you for their medical bills.

If you have homeowners, condo or renters insurance, you may be able to avoid having to pay for others’ food poisoning treatment out of your own pocket. These policies generally provide personal liability insurance, which covers others’ bodily harm that you’re responsible for, up to your policy’s limit.

By ALEXGLENN

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