Yes, but liability depends on why the damage occurred. If the damage results from the business’s negligence—like a valet scratching a car or an employee breaking an item while handling it—the business is typically responsible. However, if the damage is due to another customer or an unforeseeable event, the business may not be liable. To protect against claims, businesses should have clear policies for handling customer property and may offer secure storage or disclaimers, though these have limits.

Policies always list what they don’t cover. Key exclusions to scrutinize include intentional acts, professional services (unless you have E&O insurance), contractual liability for certain agreements, pollution, employment practices, and cyber incidents. You must understand these gaps. If your business faces excluded risks, you need separate, specific policies to cover them. Never assume a general liability policy is all-encompassing.

A prompt check allows you to observe the person’s initial condition and statements before they have time to exaggerate or fabricate injuries. If someone claims a severe back injury but is seen walking, bending, and refusing assistance at the scene, your documented observations directly contradict a later exaggerated claim. Immediate assessment provides a baseline of facts that makes it much harder for a claimant to successfully invent or amplify injuries after the fact.