A Public Liability matter does not need to reach court before it should be reported.

An incident, complaint or allegation can be enough to justify notification where it could reasonably develop into a claim.

What types of matters should I report? #

Examples can include:

• Someone being injured at your workplace or job site.
• Accidental damage to another person’s property.
• A verbal or written complaint.
• A request to pay medical or repair costs.
• A letter of demand.
• Contact from a lawyer or another insurer.
• Formal court documents.

Should I wait for a formal claim? #

No.

Notify Webber Insurance promptly if the circumstances could reasonably develop into a claim.

Early notification allows the insurer to consider the matter before evidence is lost or the position becomes more complicated.

What should I do after an incident? #

Where appropriate:

• Make sure everyone is safe.
• Take reasonable steps to prevent further injury or damage.
• Record what occurred.
• Preserve photographs, CCTV and incident reports.
• Keep witness details and correspondence.
• Do not admit liability.
• Do not promise payment or agree to settle.

Why does the date of the incident matter? #

Public Liability Insurance is commonly written on an occurrence basis.

This generally means the policy in force when the relevant injury or property damage occurred can be important, even if the claim is made later.

The specific wording and circumstances still need to be reviewed.

How do I actually lodge the claim? #

See our separate article How do I lodge a Public Liability claim? for the information normally required and how Webber Insurance can assist with the lodgement process.