Stephanie Iken, Attorney at Law

What Musicians Can Do Before Something Goes Wrong

Injuries at shows are more common than people realize. From trips over cables, overheated rooms, crowded performance areas, drunken fights, or even medical emergencies.

Many of these risks are predictable. A few small decisions before and during a show can reduce the chance of injury and limit your exposure if something does happen.

This post focuses on practical steps musicians can take to protect themselves, their bandmates, and their audience.

Understand Where Liability Comes From

Liability usually comes from one of two places:

• Someone gets injured and claims your actions contributed to it
• Property is damaged and responsibility is disputed

You do not need to own the venue to face liability. Musicians can be pulled into disputes when:

• Equipment causes a hazard
• A setup blocks walkways or exits
• Performers encourage unsafe crowd behavior
• Warnings are ignored or risks are obvious

Most issues come down to foreseeability and reasonableness. If a risk was obvious and easy to address, ignoring it creates problems.

Stage Setup and Equipment Safety

Cables, stands, and pedals are common sources of injury.

Before the show:

• Tape down cables in walkways
• Keep pedalboards tight to the stage edge
• Secure mic stands and lighting stands
• Avoid running cords across audience paths
• Keep gear away from exits and doorways

If something looks like a tripping hazard, it probably is.

Do not assume the venue handled this. If it is your equipment, treat it as your responsibility.

Crowd Interaction and On-Stage Conduct

Musicians influence crowd behavior, even unintentionally.

Avoid:

• Encouraging people to rush the stage in small spaces
• Inviting audience members onto unstable stages
• Promoting moshing where the space cannot support it
• Throwing objects into the crowd

If the venue is tight, crowded, or poorly lit, adjust your expectations. Energy does not require chaos.

Volume, Heat, and Physical Conditions

Excessive volume and heat contribute to injuries and medical emergencies.

Pay attention to:

• Poor ventilation
• Overcrowded rooms
• High temperatures
• Limited access to water

If conditions feel unsafe, say something early. Waiting until someone collapses creates liability issues no one wants.

Alcohol, Intoxication, and Expectations

Alcohol increases risk. That applies to performers and audiences.

Musicians should:

• Avoid performing while overly intoxicated
• Avoid encouraging excessive drinking
• Be mindful of impaired audience members near equipment

If someone is clearly unsafe, alert venue staff. Ignoring obvious impairment creates exposure.

Communication With the Venue

Before the show, ask:

• Who is responsible for crowd control?
• Who handles medical issues?
• What is the plan if something goes wrong?
• Where are exits and fire extinguishers?

Clear roles reduce confusion when time matters.

If something feels off, document it. A quick message or note can matter later.

Insurance and Agreements

Musicians rarely want to think about insurance. It still matters.

Consider:

• General liability insurance for bands that perform regularly
• Understanding whether a venue’s insurance covers performers
• Reviewing contracts for indemnity or responsibility clauses

You do not need a massive policy to benefit from basic coverage.

Simple Risk Reduction Habits

These habits prevent most issues:

• Walk the space before playing
• Fix obvious hazards immediately
• Speak up early
• Do not assume someone else handled it
• Trust your instincts when something feels unsafe

Most injuries happen when people notice a problem and do nothing.

Disclaimer
This post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws, liability standards, and enforcement practices vary by location and circumstance. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you have questions about risk, liability, or insurance for your specific situation, you should consult a qualified attorney or insurance professional familiar with local requirements.