Monday, August 15, 2011

The Benefits Of Error And Omission Insurance

Error omission insurance is one that any and every type of business should have. This type on insurance helps save businesses from the adverse effects of being sued. States and regions vary on whether to require businesses to have this type of insurance. Yet even without being required by law, businesses should make an effort to acquiring one to protect the company and each employee that works for it.

There is always the risk of being sued, whether as an employee or business owner. This is an issue that plagues all types of businesses, regardless of the type and industry. Being sued by an existing or past client or customer can cause immense damage to the name and reputation of the company. Being dragged into a lengthy court process not only costs businesses time and money, but can cause the professionals and companies to lose current and future business. With small businesses, being sued even once can mean closure. Obtaining an error omission insurance can help provide some security for the company and the employees working.


Mistakes happen regardless of how great the services or products being provided. It can be as simple as a delivering an important document or item to the wrong address. More grave accusations can include malpractice claims such as in the case of medical professionals such as doctors and dentists. Architects, engineers, lawyers and the like may refer to such claims as professional liability. Whether intentional or not, an error omission insurance can help protect the professional from getting his reputation damaged in case a lawsuit occurs.

Error omission insurance policies cover costs needed to defend the policy holder. This includes hiring lawyers or settlements. Even if the claims are baseless, both sides may spend thousands of dollars to defend their case. Companies can become bankrupt with the cost or they can be forced to close with the effects of the lawsuit.

Not only does error omission insurance help protect businesses, it also gives clients some peace of mind. Knowing that the company is insured reassures potential clients that they will be compensated in case any issues arise. Claims that need to be compensated by the policy should be reported within the time period that the policy is in effect. As such, companies should consider being insured before offering any services or products to the public. This ensures that any transactions made by the company are covered by the policy.

Coverage under error omission insurance policies vary depending on the insurance company and product. Premiums vary depending on the type of business, the types of risks involved. To get a good price and coverage, companies and professionals should do the necessary research. Compare insurance companies on what products they offer. See which ones are applicable for that type of business before deciding on one or several insurance products.