Civil lawsuits filed against small businesses and professionals are far more common than you think. Take the medical industry as a perfect example.
Did you know that 1 in 3 doctors have faced a medical liability lawsuit at some point in their careers? Of the cases that go to trial, the defendant wins nearly 9 times out of 10.
What does this mean for you? It means that innocent businesses and professionals are being taken to court. Also, it means that your business or practice needs protection.
Read on to learn who needs professional liability insurance. The right insurance policy can protect your business from costly and frivolous lawsuits.
What Is Professional Liability Insurance?
Professional liability insurance protects your business against legal claims and accusations. The legal costs involved with defending your business reputation are costly.
In addition, there is a chance that you lose the case despite the legal team’s best efforts. This means that your company would have to make a significant payment to the client. There is also a chance that both parties agree to a financial settlement.
Professional liability insurance covers legal fees associated with your case. It also covers financial settlements or payouts ordered by a judge.
Who Needs Professional Liability Insurance?
There are a wide-ranging number of businesses and medical practices that require professional liability insurance. As a general rule of thumb, you need business insurance if there is physical interaction with clients.
Some professionals without a storefront mistakenly believe that they do not need liability insurance. The truth is that you can still be sued for a mishap at another’s home or office. Read on for careers that need professional liability insurance.
Medical Professionals
Most people that work in the medical industry require professional liability insurance. This extends beyond physicians that are highly likely to be sued.
It also includes nurses, home health aides, and therapists. If you are having physical interaction with a patient or prescribing medicine, insurance is recommended.
Contractors
Service contractors are another industry that requires protection. Consider the risk and vulnerability for plumbers, electricians, and construction workers.
They are performing dangerous work at homes, offices, and public places. These professionals use power tools, operate heavy machinery, and work with hazardous items. Conditions like these leave businesses vulnerable to a mishap or accident.
Teachers and Daycare Workers
A growing number of teachers and daycare workers are acquiring liability coverage. The reason is that parents are holding these caregivers responsible for accidents.
These mishaps can occur at school or on the playground. As the primary caregiver in these situations, parents expect their child to be safe and free from a major illness.
A Recap of Professional Liability Insurance
Obviously, there are many more careers that require this type of insurance. Give me a call at (720) 457-9457 to discuss your business in more detail. Other occupations like accountants and lawyers typically carry coverage as well.
Professional liability insurance helps your business cover legal defenses. It also protects against significant financial settlements and court-ordered payments. If you want to learn about who needs professional liability insurance, contact us to get more information.