What Does General Liability Insurance Cover for Small Businesses?

Running a small business can be rewarding, but it also comes with its fair share of risks and uncertainties. One of the ways small business owners can protect themselves and their enterprises is by investing in insurance. General liability insurance is a fundamental policy offering financial protection against various potential liabilities.

What Is General Liability Insurance?

General liability insurance is designed to provide coverage for third-party claims related to bodily injury, property damage or advertising injury that may occur on your business premises or because of your business operations. It’s often considered a foundational policy because landlords, clients or vendors often require it before they enter into business agreements with your company.

General liability insurance typically covers the following:

• Bodily injury—If a customer or visitor slips and falls on your premises, sustaining an injury, general liability insurance may help cover the medical expenses and legal fees connected to the incident.
• Property damage—If your business activities damage someone else’s property, whether a client’s office or a rented space, your insurance can help cover repair or replacement costs.
• Personal and advertising injury—This coverage can protect your business against claims of slander, libel or copyright infringement in your advertising materials.
• Medical payments—This coverage can pay medical expenses incurred by individuals injured on your premises, even if you’re not found liable for their injuries.
• Legal defense costs—General liability insurance can help cover legal fees, including attorney’s fees and court costs.

Why Small Businesses Need General Liability Insurance

The following are some of the benefits of having general liability insurance:

• Protection against lawsuits—Legal action can be expensive and time-consuming. General liability insurance helps protect your small business from the financial strain of lawsuits and legal claims, allowing you to focus on your core operations.
• Credibility and trust—General liability insurance can enhance your credibility with potential clients, partners and investors. It demonstrates your commitment to financial responsibility and the well-being of your customers.
• Compliance and requirements—In many cases, landlords and clients require proof of general liability insurance as a prerequisite for entering into contracts or lease agreements.
• Peace of mind—With the right coverage in place, you can know that your business is protected against unexpected accidents and claims.

While insurance can be an essential safety net, it should be just one aspect of your comprehensive risk management strategy. If you need business insurance solutions, we’re here to help. Contact DRD Insurance Agency today to get started.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.