The holidays are a season of goodwill, but the hard truth isthat we live in a litigious society and even the best-intentionedhost may be on the line if food ends up undercooked or if a guestover-imbibes at the dinner table.

Even if you outsource your holiday prep to a caterer or arestaurant—as three quarters of homeowners have—you may still beresponsible if a guest contracts salmonella or ends up in aroadside accident after a couple of toasts, says the IndependentInsurance Agents & Brokers of America.

“Hosts should be aware that if someone drives drunk or becomessick after consuming food at a holiday party, the host couldactually be liable,” says Robert A. Rusbuldt, president and chiefexecutive officer of the IIABA. “Even a simple neighborhood holidaypotluck could have disastrous results for the host if someone isstricken with food poisoning.”

Here, the association offers self-protection tips for the 111million U.S. homeowners who host seasonal festivities and also forcompanies serving up a holiday bash for employees.

Know your laws and liability

In many states, party hosts can be held liable for illness oraccident resulting from food and drink served on their property orat an event thrown by them, so look into your homeowners or renterspolicy to see if you are adequately covered should an accident orillness occur during or directly after your party. The IIABAalso recommends purchasing a personal “umbrella” policy of $1million or more in addition to their regular homeowners policy.

If in doubt, throw it out

Even if you outsource your holiday prep to a caterer orrestaurant- as three quarters of homeowners have- you may still beresponsible if a guest contracts salmonella or other food poisoningfrom a tainted dish. Order food from a trusted source and don'tserve anything you are suspicious of being undercooked orspoiled.

If you need tips on preparing and storing dishes, the FDA has acomprehensive holiday food-safetyguide available on its website.

Don't get loose with the booze

In many states, hosts can be liable for third-party injuries ifa tipsy guest is involved in a roadside accident after leaving theparty, including medical bills, vehicle repair costs, lost-worktime or claims from wrongful death.

So, if a guest begins to show signs of intoxication ask for hisor her keys and offer them a non-alcoholic refreshment. And ofcourse, be vigilant to make sure no minors sneak a drink under yourwatch. For those throwing large get-togethers, consider hiring abouncer or an off-duty police officer to check guests for sobrietyas they leave.

Take the party outside

If your budget permits, host your party at a bar or restaurantthat owns a liquor license to decrease your liability. Also,schedule social and entertaining activities to take guest's mindsoff drinking, and provide food to fill them up after a few toasts.After the party, ensure everyone's peace of mind by arrangingtransportation or overnight accommodations for those who shouldn'tbe driving home.