This report analyses some of the available data to identify some of the reasons for the "crisis" of affordability and availability of the General Liability category of commercial insurance. Four possible reasons are identified: while there have apparently been dramatic increases in premium rates, premium income in the General Liability category is rising slowly relative to losses; insurers are writing less of these lines in comparison with other lines; the high and rising cost of litigation; and the relatively sharp swings in underwriting experience. These explanations do not necessarily cover the broad spectrum of and interaction between the legal, social, and other factors influencing the General Liability insurance market.
David J. Cantor, Specialist in Industry Economics, Economics Divsion.
CRS 86-628 E
"Revised April 18, 1986"
SuDoc# LC 14. 18/3
