Professional negligence is where a service provided by a professional such as a doctor or solicitor, is not up to the expected standard. If you are a professional and your advice is found to be negligent, you are at risk of a claim being pursued against you by a professional negligence solicitors on behalf of their client.
This guide will go through different ways you can protect your business against professional negligence, with the support of the right solicitors firm, like Been Let Down.
Strengthen Your Internal Processes
By making sure your procedures and quality controls are crystal clear you eliminate any room for misinterpretation. You can create simple checklists that all employees must follow in line with procedures and quality controls. It is important policies are regularly reviewed and updated, a quick tip is to have reminders in your email calendar. Mistakes can be avoided through consistency and thorough training, making sure no shortcuts are taken when an employee is in training and having an experienced employee with them at all times until they are fully competent for the job.
Keep Detailed and Clear Records
Records will be your safety net if a claim does occur, written evidence can be the difference between being found liable or defending a claim. Therefore, it is important that all documents are completed to a high standard. Accurate records can display exactly what was agreed and a time of events, in addition written evidence carries a lot more weight than memory. Many negligence claims are because a client expected something different from what was delivered, a clear agreement can protect you from this. For example as a medical professional, recording all advice you have given the patient along with decisions that were made which could include a patient agreement form.
Suitable Professional Indemnity Insurance
In the event of a professional negligence claim, PI insurance typically covers legal defence costs and compensation or damages awarded to the claimant. However, there are common gaps businesses overlook which can leave you exposed. Here are some examples to bare in mind when reviewing your insurance:
- Inadequate Policy Limits
- Exclusions Hidden in the Small Print
- Gaps When Switching Insurers
- Not Covering Contractors or Freelancers
Along with ensuring the insurance is suitable it is important to review it regularly in particular when there are business changes such as business growth.
Seek Specialist Advice at the First Sign of a Problem
Identifying an issue is the first step, signs could include client complainants or a client requesting further explanation of your advice. As soon as an issue is flagged it is important to contact professional negligence solicitors, early advice helps you to assess the situation and ensure the correct steps are carried out, helping you stay in control and avoid mistakes. One of the biggest risks with a dispute is how it can affect your reputations. By addressing concerns quickly, this strengthens client trust and helps avoid relationships being damaged or becoming public.
Conclusion
Professional negligence is a serious claim and it is important to put these measures in place to reduce the risk. While it is tempting to neglect these precautions during busy periods or loss of concentration, failing to keep them front of mind in a professional role can have extremely serious consequences. If you are ever unsure or need a review of your current procedures, you can contact a professional negligence solicitors to ensure you have the necessary safeguards in place.