Business Insurance: Understand the Shield

Public vs. General Business Liability Insurance

Protecting your business from unexpected events is crucial for ensuring its stability and long-term success. While the terms “public liability” and “general liability” are often used interchangeably, understanding the nuances between them is essential for businesses seeking adequate insurance coverage.

Public Liability: A Specific Focus

Core Coverage

Public liability insurance shields your business from financial repercussions arising from bodily injury or property damage sustained by members of the public on your business premises.

Think

Customers slipping and falling in your store, or a delivery person being injured while making a drop-off.

Limited Scope

Public liability primarily focuses on incidents occurring within your physical business location.

General Liability: A Broad Spectrum of Protection

Comprehensive Coverage

General liability insurance offers a wider range of protection compared to public liability. It covers:

Public Liability

Incorporates the coverage offered by public liability insurance.

Public Liability

Product Liability

Protects against claims arising from injuries or damages caused by defective products your business sells or manufactures.

Product Liability

Personal and Advertising Injury

Covers claims like libel, slander, or copyright infringement.

Personal and Advertising Injury

Medical Expenses

Pays for medical bills incurred by individuals due to negligence by your business or employees.

Medical Expenses

Think

A customer experiencing an allergic reaction to a product you sell, or a competitor suing for false advertising claims.

Choosing the Right Coverage

Public Liability

Ideal for businesses with a physical location where members of the public frequently visit, like retail stores or restaurants.

General Liability

Generally recommended for most businesses, especially those involved in product sales, professional services, or client interactions.

Key Considerations

Industry and Business Operations

The specific risks associated with your industry should guide your insurance selection.

Policy Limits

The maximum amount the insurance company will pay for covered claims.

Exclusions

Carefully review the policy wording to understand what situations are not covered.

In essence

Public liability serves as a foundation, safeguarding against claims from the public specifically on your business premises.

General liability builds upon this foundation, offering a more extensive shield against a wider range of potential legal and financial risks.

Conclusion

For most businesses, general liability insurance provides a more comprehensive risk management strategy. Consulting with an insurance professional can help you assess your specific needs and choose the most suitable coverage to ensure your business is well-protected against unforeseen circumstances.

Your next step is to have a conversation with an expert, to determine your specific needs and identify solutions that meet them. We’re ready to help —
no obligations, no fees, no pressure.

We will never sell or use your personal information for any reason other than to provide these services.

Our business insurance solutions

Key Person Insurance

Protects the company from the consequences of losing an employee who is critical to its success

Cybersecurity Insurance

Provides protection for the risks associated with doing business online, primarily data breaches

Professional Indemnity (errors and omissions)

Covers the business against claims of negligent services or advice that caused client losses or damages

Directors and Officers

Protects directors and officers of a company against the costs associated with claims that they made errors or neglected key details in the course of their duties

Property Insurance

Provides protection for your physical business location, equipment, supplies and inventory

Public and General Business Liability

Protects against bodily injury and property damage related to a business, as well as libel and other issues with advertising

We value your privacy. See how we use data and control your options Privacy policy