General liability
explained visually
The most common business insurance policy — and the most misunderstood. Here's exactly how GL works, with real-world scenarios showing what pays and what doesn't.
Does GL cover this? Real scenarios
Slip and fall at your business
GL PAYSA customer trips on a wet floor at your retail location and breaks their wrist. GL pays their medical bills and any lawsuit.
Property damage to a client
GL PAYSWhile working at a client's home, you accidentally break an expensive piece of furniture. GL pays the replacement cost.
Advertising injury claim
GL PAYSA competitor claims your ad used their slogan. GL covers your legal defense and any settlement.
Your employee gets injured
GL DOESN'T PAYWorkers comp pays for this — NOT general liability. GL only covers third-party bodily injury (customers, vendors, passersby).
Your own tools are stolen
GL DOESN'T PAYCommercial property (or inland marine) covers this. GL covers damage you cause to others' property, not your own.
A client sues over bad advice
GL DOESN'T PAYProfessional liability (E&O) handles this. GL excludes professional services and advice-based claims.
Choosing the right limits
Format is: per-occurrence limit / aggregate limit. Both apply per policy period (usually 12 months).