It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s a… vendor’s tent flying through the air?!
Accidents strike when we least expect them, and often in ways we don’t plan for. General liability insurance for event vendors offers crucial protection against common incidents that can happen during any event.
3 Key Things Vendor General Liability Insurance Covers
1. Bodily Injuries + Medical Expenses
If a customer is injured while interacting with your business at an event, like tripping over your display, general liability can cover:
- Medical expenses
- Legal costs
- Potential settlements
Coverage in Action: Imagine you’re serving food at a busy event, and a customer slips in your booth, injuring their leg. Your insurance could cover their medical bills and legal fees if they sue.
2. Property Damage + Repairs
If you accidentally damage a venue’s property while setting up your booth, your general liability insurance could help cover repair or replacement costs.
Coverage in Action: You’re carrying your gear inside when someone rushes past you, causing you to lose your grip and drop a heavy speaker. Now the venue owner wants you to pay to repair the hole left in the wall.
3. Legal Defense Costs
If your business faces a lawsuit, the legal fees alone to defend yourself can be overwhelming. General liability includes coverage for legal defense costs, even if the lawsuit has no merit.
Coverage in Action: Someone files a lawsuit claiming your equipment caused them harm despite you following event protocols, like your speakers were too loud, your cords weren’t secured enough, your photography equipment was getting in the way, or your display was a tripping hazard. Your insurance could cover the legal expenses to defend your business in court.
What is Not Covered?
While general liability is an essential part of vendor insurance, it doesn’t cover everything. Here’s what’s typically excluded from this type of insurance:
❌ Employee injuries: If one of your employees or volunteers gets hurt while working, general liability insurance won’t cover their medical expenses. You’ll need a Workers’ Compensation policy for that.
❌ Intentional damage:
Insurance won’t cover damage or injury caused by your intentional actions. For example, if a vendor deliberately damages another vendor’s booth, it won’t be covered.
❌ Product liability: If your product is defective and causes harm, this would not be covered under general liability insurance. If you’re a food vendor, you may be concerned about contamination or foodborne illness. In these cases, you need vendor Product Liability Insurance that specifically protects against claims related to products you make or sell.
❌ Theft and damage: If your gear, tools, supplies, equipment, or inventory are stolen or damaged, it is not covered by general liability. You need Tools and Equipment Coverage (Inland Marine) for that.
Why Do Vendors Need General Liability Insurance?
Vendors need liability insurance to:
- Meet insurance requirements
- Show proof of insurance
- Help pay for common claims
- Safely attend events
- Get peace of mind
⭐ Fulfill Vendor Requirements
Many events require vendors to carry their own insurance to attend. Even if they don’t require it, having insurance makes you look more professional and prepared, positioning you as a preferred vendor to event organizers.
⭐ Reduce or Eliminate Claim Costs
Attending events without general liability vendor insurance is playing a game of chance. The truth is, accidents happen more often than you think, and without the right coverage, the financial consequences can be overwhelming.
Look at it this way:
The cost of insurance = $49/event
vs
The cost of a lawsuit = $10,000 in legal fees
The peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re protected is invaluable.
Event Success Starts with the Right Coverage
Insurance Canopy specializes in tailoring coverage to event vendors, whether you’re serving food or showcasing unique products. Get a customized quote today and see how affordable vendor insurance can be.
FAQs About General Liability Insurance for Vendors
What is General Liability for Vendors?
General liability for vendors covers third-party accidents caused by running a booth, stall, or kiosk, or providing services at an event. It’s designed to protect you from financial loss if someone is injured or property is damaged while you’re at an event or market.
What Kind of Insurance Do I Need as a Vendor?
Besides general liability insurance, you may need other types of insurance, like:
- Damage to Premises Rented to You
- Personal and Advertising Injury
- Professional Liability
- Product Liability
- Tools and Equipment Coverage
- Cyber Liability
- Workers Comp
Learn more about the types of coverage you need in our Guide to Vendor Liability Insurance.
What is Event Liability Insurance for Vendors?
Event liability insurance for vendors is a short-term form of general liability insurance that specifically covers risks associated with operating at events, such as festivals, trade shows, and fairs.
It protects you from accidents like property damage or bodily injuries that occur while you’re at the event.
