Top 6 Reasons for Purchasing D&O Insurance for Your Company

What is Directors’ and Officers’ Liability Insurance?

With a great deal of responsibility and power, officers and directors are exposed to a higher level of risk. Directors’ and officers’ insurance, more commonly known as D& O insurance intends to provide coverage specifically to the officers, directors, and executives of an organization if they are sued as a result of serving the company. D& O insurance claims are paid for losses incurred or compensation for defense costs if legal action is taken against them.

Top 6 Reasons for Purchasing D& O Insurance for Company

D& O claims are expensive, complicated, and, stressful and could even drag on for years. This may lead to distracted company leadership, and inefficient, ineffective and disturbed functioning of the business; if they aren’t covered adequately. Every organization is different, and so are its needs.

Hence, D&O insurance can seldom be a “one-size-fits-all” solution. These policies usually are highly flexible to meet the needs of the businesses.

We list down the top 6 reasons for purchasing D& O insurance for companies.

1. Helps provide legal cost coverage

The directors and officers make critical decisions which expose them to multiple litigation risks. They can be vulnerable to lawsuits that may attract small claims or larger ones that may have a severe impact on their financial and reputational standing. With the right D& O insurance, these types of claims (whether small or big), can be resolved relatively quickly. Insurers help deal with the lawsuit, hire defense team to fight on your behalf, and cover legal expenses.

2. Bankruptcy protection

When a company files for bankruptcy, they usually get protection from litigation. However, the directors and officers of the company may still be facing risks. If officers of a bankrupt company are sued, they may be in a difficult situation, as the company is no longer in a position to indemnify them. A good D& O insurance policy can help provide the directors and executives with the required protection.

3. Cyber Breaches

Cyber breaches are on the rise. The main question is, who is to be held responsible in case of cyber breached situations? In general, the people in charge of taking decisions, that is, the ones at the higher-ups are said to be responsible.

Thus, if any third party believes that not enough measures were taken to mitigate these risks, they may sue the officers. D&O insurance can thus be an essential tool. 

4. Attract potential investors

May times, investors of start-ups may want to protect their investments. To reduce risk and potential exposure to lawsuits, investors would expect good D&O insurance in place.

5. Attracts and Retains Top Talent

Talented executives are always in demand to lead the business. What attracts these high-level, talented executives are the perks provided to them, along with the paychecks and challenging work. D&O insurance is one such benefit that attracts them.

6. Saves time and money

When businesses are hit with lawsuits, it can be costly and time-consuming. Directors’ liability insurance can help cover the legal costs and focus on the more important aspect - running their operations.

Conclusion

When it comes to protecting your company, taking precautions and being cautious is always recommended. D&O insurance for a company is a great tool to mitigate risks, give directors and officers peace of mind and help them confidently take decisions in the interest of the business.