How is an occurrence defined in liability terms?

An occurrence in liability terms is defined as both accidents and ongoing exposures that cause damage. This means that it encompasses not just isolated incidents but also situations where harm results from continuous or repeated actions over time. For example, a single event such as a car accident qualifies as an occurrence, but so does a situation where harmful exposure to a substance happens repeatedly, leading to health issues or property damage over time.

This broader definition is essential in liability cases because it ensures that parties can be held accountable for both immediate and cumulative effects of their actions. By recognizing ongoing exposures as occurrences, the legal framework allows victims of long-term damage to seek justice and compensation for injuries that may not arise from a singular event but rather from a sustained pattern of behavior.

Understanding occurrences in this comprehensive way is crucial for both insurers and those seeking to file claims, as it influences the assessment of liability and the framework within which claims are made and resolved.