General liability insurance is a core coverage for many companies, providing a safeguard against certain third-party claims that can arise in everyday business operations. For small and mid-sized businesses across Michigan, a commercial general liability (CGL) policy is often considered an essential part of an overall risk management program.
This type of business liability insurance is designed to help with costs related to claims such as bodily injury, property damage, or certain personal and advertising injuries.
What Does General Liability Insurance Cover?
A general liability policy can address common claims that affect businesses of all sizes, including:
- Bodily injury – for example, if a customer is injured on your premises.
- Property damage – such as accidental damage caused to a client’s property.
- Personal and advertising injury – including claims of libel, slander, or copyright infringement.
In Michigan, this coverage is also known as commercial liability insurance or CGL coverage. Its role is to help businesses manage exposure to certain third-party risks that may result in legal expenses or settlement costs.
What Is Not Covered Under General Liability Insurance?
It’s important to recognize that general liability insurance does not address every type of business risk. For example, it generally does not cover:
- Employee injuries – typically handled through workers’ compensation insurance.
- Professional mistakes or omissions – addressed by professional liability (errors & omissions) insurance.
- Intentional or contractual liabilities – unless specifically added by endorsement.
Because of these limitations, general liability is often paired with other types of coverage. Many small businesses purchase it within a Business Owners Policy (BOP), which may also include property and business interruption insurance.
General Liability Insurance in Michigan: Flexible Options
Businesses across Michigan, from contractors and manufacturers to restaurants, retailers, and professional firms, often carry some form of liability protection.
Factors that can influence the type and cost of coverage include:
- The size and nature of the business
- Industry-specific risks
- Location and operations
- Past claims history
- overage limits and deductibles selected
A liability policy for businesses can be structured as a standalone general liability plan or integrated into a broader commercial insurance package.
How Mason-McBride Supports Michigan Businesses
At Mason-McBride, we take a consultative approach, helping clients explore commercial liability insurance options that fit their circumstances. As an independent insurance agency, we work with multiple carriers and provide access to a range of business insurance solutions.
Our role is to help you understand your coverage choices, clarify policy terms, and support you in maintaining an insurance program that reflects your business needs.
Why Work with Mason-McBride?
Businesses choose Mason-McBride because of our:
- Independent agency model with access to multiple carriers
- Decades of experience serving Michigan businesses
- Focus on clarity, transparency, and client relationships
- Ongoing support for renewals, policy changes, and claims guidance
We serve a wide range of industries, from professional services and healthcare to construction, technology, and manufacturing.
Request a General Liability Insurance Proposal
If you are reviewing your general liability insurance in Michigan or looking for guidance on business liability coverage, Mason-McBride can help you explore options. Contact our Troy office or use the form below to request a consultation.