That is an interesting and important question! The short answer is “no,” but it should come with an explanation.

Personal injury is different from bodily injury and is treated as such by homeowners' liability forms. Depending on the carrier and program, personal injury coverage may be added by endorsement or as part of the base policy. (An example of a Personal Injury homeowners endorsement can be seen here):

Personal Injury is defined in the policy form(s) and may include acts such as:

• False arrest, detention, or imprisonment;
• Malicious prosecution;
• Wrongful eviction
• Libel or slander (oral or written)
• Violation of Privacy (oral or written)

Every homeowner's policy has numerous exclusions that apply to liability coverage parts and may include:

• Foreknowledge that the act would inflict "personal injury."
• Knowledge that the publication of the material was false
• Arising out of the offense related to the insured's employment or "business."

The last employment/business exclusion suggests that those involved as social media "influencers" or who are compensated for their posts could trigger the "business" exclusion found in a homeowners liability section.

It is essential to know that insurance companies use different forms and policy language. In addition, each state's insurance department approves the forms companies can use.

Are you concerned about or looking for personal injury coverage? The help of a knowledgeable independent insurance agent would be beneficial. The Ryan Agency’s homeowners insurance specialists will gladly help with your essential liability questions. You can contact us by dialing 607-324-7500 or stopping by our office nearest you.