Professional Liability Insurance: Protecting Your Career and Reputation
James Graydon, MBA
Vice President of Property & Casualty at USI | Advising Business Leaders on Capital-Efficient Insurance & Risk Management
As a professional, you've worked hard to build your expertise and establish a reputation in your field. Whether you're a doctor, lawyer, architect, or consultant, you want to be known for the quality of your work and the satisfaction of your clients. But what happens when things go wrong, and you're faced with a lawsuit or a claim of negligence? This is where professional liability insurance comes in.
Professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions insurance, provides financial protection for you and your business in the event of a claim or lawsuit. It covers the cost of legal defense, settlement fees, and any damages awarded. Without this coverage, you could be personally liable for the full amount of the judgment, which could mean losing your savings, your home, and your livelihood.
Many professionals mistakenly believe that their general liability insurance is enough to protect them from lawsuits. However, general liability insurance typically only covers claims of physical injury or property damage. It doesn't cover the errors or omissions that are the basis of most professional liability claims. For example, if you're an architect and you design a building that later collapses, you could be sued for negligence. Your general liability insurance wouldn't cover this type of claim, but your professional liability insurance would.
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In addition to protecting your assets, professional liability insurance can also protect your reputation. When you have insurance coverage, you have the resources and support you need to defend yourself against a claim. You can hire an attorney to represent you and fight for your rights. This can help you maintain your professional reputation, even if you lose the case.
Professional liability insurance is often a requirement for many professions. Many clients and customers won't work with you unless you have this coverage, and some professional organizations even require it for membership. Having this coverage shows that you take your work and your clients seriously and that you're committed to protecting them.
Professional liability insurance provides financial protection and helps you defend your rights. Don't take chances with your livelihood - contact me today at [email protected] to discuss our industry-specific professional liability programs.