As a business owner, you understand that accidents can happen at any time. No matter how much you prepare and take precautions, there's always a chance that someone could get hurt on your property or that your business could cause damage to someone else's property. This is where general liability insurance comes in. But do you know how to make a general liability claim if needed?

What is general liability insurance?

General liability insurance is a type of business insurance that covers third-party claims of bodily injury, property damage, and advertising injury. This coverage is designed to protect your business from legal expenses, medical expenses, and damages that could arise from accidents on your property or as a result of your business operations.

Now, when would you file a liability claim?

You would file a liability claim if someone were injured or damaged due to your business operations. For example, if a customer slips and falls on a wet floor in your store and suffers injuries, they may file a liability claim against your business. Or, if you accidentally damage someone's property while on a job site, they may file a claim for property damage against your business.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to file a general liability claim, here are the steps you need to take:

Notify your insurance company: The first step is to notify your insurance company immediately. This is important because there may be time limits for filing a claim, and delaying notification could jeopardize your coverage. Be sure to provide all the necessary information, including the incident's date, time, and location, the names and contact information of any witnesses, and a description of what happened.

Gather evidence: Next, gather any evidence you have related to the incident, such as photographs or videos of the damage or injuries, witness statements, and any relevant documents or records. This evidence will help your insurance company investigate the claim and determine liability.

Cooperate with the investigation: Your insurance company will investigate the claim to determine whether your business is liable for the damages or injuries. Cooperating fully with this investigation is essential, providing any additional information or evidence they may need.

Evaluate the settlement offer: If your insurance company determines that your business is liable for the damages or injuries, they will make a settlement offer to the claimant. It's important to review this offer carefully and consult your insurance agent or attorney if necessary to ensure it's fair and reasonable.

Resolve the claim: Once you've agreed to a settlement, your insurance company will pay the claimant the agreed-upon amount. The claim may proceed to court if the claimant rejects the settlement offer.

Final Thoughts!

Knowing how to make a general liability claim is essential to being a responsible business owner. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to file a claim, follow these steps to ensure that your claim is handled efficiently and effectively. And if you need help with your general liability insurance, contact us at Weeks & Associates Insurance Services. Our knowledgeable agents can help you find the coverage you need to protect your business and assets.