General Liability Insurance in New York State
Protection Against Common Business Risks and Claims
General Liability Insurance: What It Is & Why You Need It
Commercial general liability insurance (often called CGL) serves as a foundational layer of protection for your business. This comprehensive policy helps cover many of the everyday risks businesses face, including accidents that result in bodily injury or property damage, as well as certain claims related to your operations or completed work.
Often considered the first line of defense, CGL coverage applies to incidents that occur at your place of business, on a job site, or as a result of your services. By helping cover claims and legal expenses, it offers financial protection that allows you to operate with greater confidence and focus on running your business.
Accidents can happen unexpectedly—and even a single claim can be costly. Commercial general liability insurance helps protect your business from significant financial losses by providing coverage for:
- Bodily injury claims involving customers, clients, or third parties
- Property damage caused to someone else’s property
- Personal and advertising injury, such as libel, slander, or copyright infringement
- Legal defense costs, including attorney fees and court expenses
General liability insurance is considered essential for most businesses, regardless of size or industry. It is commonly recommended for:
- Small business owners
- Contractors and tradespeople
- Retail stores and restaurants
- Professional service providers
- Home-based businesses
Additional Considerations
Beyond these coverages, there are additional, optional coverages to protect you in a variety of situations. For example:
| Coverage Type | Coverages Provided |
|---|---|
Liquor Liability |
Covers incidents and claims related to serving alcohol |
Professional/Errors & Omissions (E&O) |
Protects against mistakes or negligence in professional services |
Employee Benefits Liability |
Covers errors in administering employee benefits that are typically excluded from general liability policies |
Frequently Asked Questions About GEneral Liability Insurance
What does this policy cover?
General Liability insurance protects your business against claims for bodily injury, property damage, and certain personal or advertising injuries caused by your operations, products, or services. For questions about what’s included or optional coverage,contact us to review your policy.
Will this policy cover if I or any of my employees get hurt?
No. General Liability does not cover injuries to you or your employees. Workers’ Compensation or personal health insurance would be needed for those situations. Contact us to discuss the right coverage for your team.
Do my employees have to get their own insurance?
Employees are not covered under General Liability, so they would need their own health or disability insurance, or the business would need Workers’ Compensation to provide coverage for work-related injuries.
Contact us to discuss the right coverage for your team.
What to Expect When You Contact Us for a General Liability Quote
Our commercial specialists review your business operations, industry risks, and coverage requirements. They will explain your options clearly, help you select appropriate limits, and ensure your policy meets contractual or landlord requirements.
Request your Ferris General Liability Insurance Quote Today