Though it may not be something that you have considered as an independent filmmaker, general liability insurance is an incredibly valuable asset. While a company is likely to have some resources at its disposal should a legal situation arise, for an individual, there may only be your savings account standing between you and an insurance claim.
This insurance covers you for damages to a location or for injury to an uninvolved bystander or audience member. It also covers your legal fees if anyone sues you because of either of the aforementioned scenarios, meaning it will give you peace of mind the next time you're rigging your lights over a busy pedestrian walkway.
As an individual, this coverage is most important if you are working as an independent contractor, if you are doing work outside or involving the general public, or if you are considering anything requiring permits from your city.
And if you teach, get this coverage immediately. An injury to a student is the last thing that anyone wants to consider, but in that circumstance you can be held responsible.
Since this is a solo operation, I don’t have anyone I pay but I do shamelessly nag my friends to haul my equipment around. Done under duress or not, that’s still considered volunteering. Do them a favor. Volunteer Accident
I don’t have any crew, but I do pay my location scout. Very nice! Workers' Compensation
