![12647348_1396 [Converted]-01-01.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/3f4fbc_7d04562f15b142f287bce1d7872e01fd~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_49,h_6,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/3f4fbc_7d04562f15b142f287bce1d7872e01fd~mv2.png)
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS INSURANCE
Directors and Officers Insurance (D&O Insurance) is a type of liability insurance that provides financial protection for individuals serving as directors, officers, and sometimes employees of a company.
This coverage is designed to protect these individuals from personal losses in the event they are sued for alleged wrongful acts while managing the company.
​Directors and Officers Insurance
COVERAGES
Protection for Corporate Leadership
​D&O Insurance provides protection for directors, officers, and, in some cases, employees against personal losses, including legal defense costs and settlements, arising from alleged wrongful acts while managing the company
Types of Wrongful Acts
Wrongful acts can include decisions that adversely affect the company's financial performance, breaches of fiduciary duties, mismanagement of company funds, conflicts of interest, and other alleged failures in leadership responsibilities.
Legal Defense Costs
​The policy typically covers legal defense costs associated with investigations, lawsuits, and other legal proceedings. This includes attorney fees, court costs, and settlements or judgments.
Entity Coverage
Some D&O policies may include coverage for the company itself (entity coverage) when it is named in a lawsuit along with its directors and officers.
Side A, Side B, and Side C Coverage
Side A Coverage: Provides coverage directly to individual directors and officers when the company is unable or unwilling to indemnify them.
Side B Coverage: Reimburses the company for the costs of indemnifying its directors and officers. Side C Coverage: Extends coverage to the corporation itself for securities claims.
Employment Practices Liability (EPL) Coverage
Some D&O policies include coverage for employment-related claims, such as allegations of wrongful termination, discrimination, or harassment.
Retentions and Deductibles
Policies may have retentions (similar to deductibles), which represent the amount the insured must pay out of pocket before the insurance coverage applies.
Coverage Limits
D&O policies have coverage limits, indicating the maximum amount the insurer will pay for covered losses. It's important to choose appropriate coverage limits based on the size and risk profile of the organization.
Non-Profit Organizations
Non-profit organizations also commonly purchase D&O Insurance to protect their board members and officers from personal liability in the course of managing the organization.
Exclusions
Policies may have exclusions that specify situations or events not covered by the policy. It's crucial for directors, officers, and the company to understand these exclusions.
Directors and Officers Insurance is critical for attracting and retaining qualified individuals to serve on a company's board of directors or hold executive positions. It provides a layer of protection, ensuring that individuals can make decisions without the constant fear of personal financial ruin in the event of legal challenges. Companies should carefully consider their D&O insurance needs, and policy terms should be reviewed thoroughly to ensure they align with the specific risks and responsibilities of the individuals covered.
​
Annagard Insurance Agency is always here for all your insurance needs. Please feel free to call us at any time, we will be delighted to speak with you.