In the world of events and entertainment, even the most careful businesses experience the occasional minor mishap. A scrape here, a small cut there...it happens! Fortunately, your Commercial General Liability (CGL) policy includes coverage for Medical Expenses to Others, a simple way to address minor injuries without stress or delay. But what exactly does this coverage include? Let's talk about it!
Medical Expenses to Others is no-fault coverage with preset limits intended to address immediate, minor injuries resulting from your operations. It's designed to keep small accidents from becoming big problems by offering an argument-free solution. This coverage may also apply to something resulting from your products or completed operations. It typically covers things such as stitches, X-rays, or simple wound care.
SIA's Performer/Vendor policies include a fixed Medical Expenses to Others limit of $5,000, which cannot be changed. However, our MPEP clients may be able to increase their limits to $10,000 for an additional premium. So why are the limits so "low" in comparison to the rest of your policy?
Simply put, the types of injuries this coverage is designed for rarely exceed $5,000. If an audience member or customer were to sustain more serious injuries, the Bodily Injury to Others coverage would apply instead. That portion of your policy is typically tied to the each occurrence limit, which is the most you'd be paid out per claim (SIA clients have a range of each occurrence limits from $1M-$3M).
What should you do if an event/venue asks for more coverage? We always recommend talking to the event/venue directly. Once they understand the purpose and limitations of this specific coverage, many are willing to work with you and adjust their requirements.
Example: A customer is walking around your booth space when their arm catches on your wooden display case. They look down, notice a cut, and head to the medical tent for quick care.
Example: An audience member joins you on stage for a magic trick and bumps their shin going up the steps. They don't think much of it in the moment, but when they get back to their seat, they notice they're bleeding and visit the medical tent for treatment.
If you have any questions about Medical Expenses to Others coverage, please reach out to our office via email at info@specialtyinsuranceagency.com or give us a call at 715-246-8908!
