General Liability Insurance 2026: Coverage, Costs & Do You Need It?
General Liability Insurance 2026: Coverage, Costs & Do You Need It? General liability insurance (GL) is the foundation of business insurance — it protects you if someone is injured or their property is damaged because of your business. This guide explains coverage, costs, and why every business needs it. What Is General Liability Insurance? Also called Commercial General Liability (CGL). Covers: Third-party bodily injury, third-party property damage, personal and advertising injury (libel, slander, copyright), legal defense costs. Does NOT cover: Employee injuries (workers comp), professional errors (professional liability/E&O), auto accidents (commercial auto), intentional acts, your own property damage. Who needs it: Every business — sole proprietors, LLCs, corporations, contractors, retailers, restaurants, consultants. What Does It Cover? (Examples) Bodily injury: Customer slips on wet floor in your store → medical bills + legal fees covered. Property damage: Your ...