What is employment practices liability insurance or EPLI? EPLI is a form of liability insurance that provides coverage for seemingly wrongful acts during the employment process. These acts involve claims by employees alleging discrimination (based on sex, race, age or disability, for example), wrongful termination, harassment and other employment-related issues, such as breach of contract.
According to Insurance Journal, in 2013, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission handled more than 100,000 complaints, filed more than 130 lawsuits and recovered more than a record high $370 million. In 2014, there was only a slight dip to 89,000 complaints with $300 million recovered. 43% of total complaints were for retaliation, an all-time high.
Companies must tread carefully throughout the hiring and firing process. Potential employees or former employees often file EPLI suits after failing to acquire a job or being fired from a job simply just to see if they can receive financial gain from it, regardless if any wrongful acts were committed. Even if not guilty, companies often dole out settlements in order to avoid the headache of a lawsuit. That is why employment practices liability insurance is such a vital coverage for employers.
In a lawsuit-happy age, the right protection is crucial. EPLI coverage is a must for employers everywhere. Florida, in particular, is one of a handful of states in which these EPLI suits are more prevalent. The right coverage will not only assist in protecting your assets, but also your business and livelihood, as a whole.
Pettineo Insurance Agency Inc. provides Employment Practices Liability Insurance in Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, North Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Oakland Park, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Hollywood, Sunrise, Coral Springs, Pembroke Pines, Sunrise, Tamarac, Plantation, Lighthouse Point and all of Florida
