
Every business, regardless of size or industry, faces risks that can lead to lawsuits or financial
losses. That’s why liability protection is such a critical part of any business insurance strategy. Unfortunately, many companies either underestimate their risks or make costly mistakes that leave them vulnerable when claims arise.
Here are the biggest mistakes businesses make in liability protection—and how to avoid them.
1. Relying Only on General Liability Insurance
- The mistake:
Believing that one general liability policy covers all risks.
- The reality: General liability policies cover bodily injury, property damage, and some personal injury claims, but they don’t cover professional mistakes, employment disputes, or cyber incidents.
- Better approach: Pair general liability with additional policies like professional liability, employment practices liability (EPLI), or cyber liability coverage.
2. Choosing the Minimum Coverage Limits
- The mistake:
Opting for the cheapest policy with the lowest liability limits.
- The reality:
A single lawsuit can easily exceed a $1 million limit, leaving your business to cover the rest out-of-pocket.
- Better approach: Assess your assets, industry risks, and potential claims to set realistic coverage limits.
3. Not Updating Coverage as the Business Grows
- The mistake:
Keeping the same liability policy for years without adjustments.
- The reality:
As you hire more employees, expand services, or purchase new assets, your exposure increases.
- Better approach: Review your policies annually and update coverage to match business growth.
4. Overlooking Professional Liability Insurance
- The mistake:
Assuming only doctors or lawyers need professional liability (also known as errors & omissions insurance).
- The reality: Any service-based business (consultants, IT professionals, contractors) can face claims of negligence or poor advice.
- Better approach: Add professional liability insurance if your business provides services, guidance, or expertise.
5. Ignoring Cyber Liability Risks
- The mistake:
Thinking cyberattacks only target large corporations.
- The reality:
Small businesses are often prime targets because they have weaker cybersecurity. A breach can lead to lawsuits, fines, and reputational harm.
- Better approach: Invest in cyber liability coverage to handle data breaches, ransomware attacks, and recovery costs.
6. Failing to Understand Exclusions
- The mistake:
Assuming “covered” means everything is included.
- The reality:
Policies often exclude certain risks, such as employee injuries (covered by workers’ comp), intentional acts, or certain professional errors.
- Better approach: Read your policy carefully and ask your insurer about exclusions before you buy.
7. Not Considering an Umbrella Policy
- The mistake:
Thinking standard coverage is always enough.
- The reality:
A major liability claim could exceed your general liability or auto insurance limits.
- Better approach: Add an umbrella policy to extend coverage and safeguard your business from catastrophic losses.
Conclusion
Liability protection isn’t just about having a policy—it’s about having the right coverage, with the right limits, and regularly updated to match your business risks. By avoiding common mistakes like relying on a single policy, underinsuring, or ignoring exclusions, businesses can better protect themselves from costly claims and legal battles.
The right liability protection ensures your company can weather challenges, safeguard its reputation, and focus on growth without fear of devastating financial setbacks.
At Priority Insurance LLC, we put our clients first by offering them policies that they can afford. Having insurance is a necessity nowadays, and we're here to help you out. Learn more about our products and services by calling our agency at (864) 297-9744. You can also request a free quote by CLICKING HERE.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.









