What does a Commercial General Liability Insurance policy in California cover?

What does a Commercial General Liability Insurance policy in California cover?

A Commercial General Liability (CGL) Insurance policy in California provides coverage to businesses against claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal and advertising injury arising out of their operations, products, or services. 


Here's an overview of what a typical CGL policy covers:


Key Coverages of a CGL Policy in California


Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability:


Covers legal costs and damages if a third party (customer, visitor, or third-party) suffers bodily injury or property damage caused by the business's operations, products, or services.


Personal and Advertising Injury:


Protects against claims related to libel, slander, false advertising, copyright infringement, or invasion of privacy arising from the business’s advertising or personal conduct.


Medical Payments:


Pays for medical expenses if a third party is injured on the business premises, regardless of fault. This is typically a no-fault coverage and often has a lower limit.


Defense Costs:


Covers legal defense costs in case the business is sued for covered claims, even if the lawsuit is groundless.


Products-Completed Operations Coverage:


Protects against claims arising from products manufactured, sold, or distributed by the business after they have been completed or sold.


Premises Liability:


Covers injuries or damages that occur on the business’s premises due to maintenance or operational hazards.


Not Typically Covered (Exclusions):


Professional errors or omissions (covered by Professional Liability policies) Employee injuries (covered by Workers' Compensation Insurance) Intentional damages or criminal acts Pollution or environmental damage (may require additional pollution coverage) 


Certain contractual liabilities unless specifically endorsed


Additional Notes for California:


California has specific laws related to liability and insurance requirements.


Business owners should ensure their policies comply with state regulations and adequately cover their specific risks.


It's often advisable to review policy exclusions carefully and consider additional coverage (e.g., cyber liability, pollution, or employment practices liability) depending on the nature of the business.


In summary: A CGL policy in California provides broad protection against common third-party claims related to bodily injury, property damage, and related advertising or personal injury claims stemming from business operations.

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