Commercial general liability (CGL) insurance is a type of insurance policy designed to provide broad coverage to businesses for bodily injury claims, property damage, and advertising and personal injury liability. CGL insurance is considered comprehensive business insurance, but it does not cover all of the risks a business may face. When a claim is covered by the insurance policy, the insurance company generally has two duties to the insured (business): the duty to defend the insured by hiring a lawyer to represent the business, and the duty to indemnify the insured, by paying to settle the claim or paying any judgment from a court or arbitrator.

In New York, Commercial General Liability (CGL) insurance is a standard form of insurance that provides coverage to businesses for various liabilities, including bodily injury, property damage, and personal and advertising injury. New York does not have specific statutes that govern CGL policies; instead, these policies are regulated under general insurance law. The New York Insurance Law requires that policies be clear in their terms and conditions and that they comply with state regulations. When a claim falls within the coverage of a CGL policy, the insurer has the duty to defend the insured business in legal proceedings and the duty to indemnify, meaning the insurer must pay for covered losses up to the policy limits. It's important for businesses to understand that CGL insurance does not cover all risks, such as professional liability, workers' compensation, and commercial auto accidents, which typically require separate policies. Additionally, New York courts have a significant body of case law interpreting CGL policies, which can influence how coverage is applied in specific circumstances.