In terms of liability coverage, what is "personal injury"?

"Personal injury" in the context of liability coverage primarily refers to non-physical harm suffered by an individual, which includes issues such as defamation, invasion of privacy, false arrest, and emotional distress. This type of injury addresses actions that can harm an individual's reputation or personal security without causing direct physical damage.

The distinguishing aspect of personal injury lies in its legal ramifications, where one party's actions that lead to the mental, emotional, or reputational harm of another can result in a liability claim. This is different from bodily injury, which typically involves physical harm resulting from accidents or incidents.

In the context of personal injury liability coverage, insurance policies often provide protections against claims made regarding these non-physical grievances, ensuring that individuals and businesses have a safeguard against the financial ramifications of these actions. In essence, personal injury liability is critical because it broadens the scope of civil liability beyond mere physical injuries, covering a range of contentious issues that might arise in daily interactions.