What does Coverage A in a commercial general liability policy cover?

Coverage A in a commercial general liability policy primarily addresses bodily injury and property damage that the insured becomes legally obligated to pay due to their negligence in connection with their business operations. This coverage plays a crucial role in protecting businesses against claims arising from unintentional acts that lead to harm or damage to third parties.

The emphasis on negligence means that claims must typically be based on an action or omission that falls below the standard of care expected under the circumstances. This is a fundamental aspect of liability coverage, as it helps ensure that businesses are protected from unforeseen incidents that arise during the regular course of their operations.

In contrast, intentional acts committed by the insured would not be covered, as liability insurance is designed to address unintentional harm rather than deliberate wrongdoing. Claims based on strict liability often require different coverage or specialized policies, as these claims do not hinge on the insured's negligence but rather on the nature of the activity being conducted. Personal injury coverage, while included under some liability policies, is typically treated separately and has its own distinct definitions and exclusions.