What is the difference between "premises liability" and "product liability"?

The distinction between premises liability and product liability is fundamental in understanding different types of legal responsibilities and insurance coverage. Premises liability refers to the legal obligation of property owners to ensure that their premises are safe for visitors. This encompasses a variety of potential hazards, such as spills, uneven surfaces, or inadequate maintenance, which could lead to injuries on the property.

On the other hand, product liability pertains specifically to the responsibility of manufacturers, distributors, and sellers for injuries caused by defective or unsafe products. This area of law addresses issues such as design defects, manufacturing defects, and failure to provide adequate warnings about potential dangers associated with the product.

The accurate differentiation provided highlights that premises liability deals with injuries occurring on a property, focusing on the safety of the physical environment, whereas product liability is concerned with the safety and reliability of the products being sold. Understanding this distinction is crucial for navigating legal and insurance matters effectively in commercial contexts.