D&O Policies Exclusions: What Businesses Should Know

I. Introduction

Directors and Officers (D&O) policies are designed to protect businesses and their executives from legal actions related to their actions in the workplace. These policies provide financial protection against claims for wrongful acts, including breach of duty, negligence, and mismanagement. However, it is essential to understand that D&O policies also come with exclusions that limit the coverage provided. In this article, we will discuss the most common exclusions in D&O policies that businesses should be aware of.

II. Exclusions in D&O Policies

A. Fraudulent acts

D&O policies typically exclude coverage for fraudulent acts committed by executives or directors of the company. This exclusion includes any intentional act of dishonesty or fraudulent behavior that results in financial harm to the company.

B. Prior acts

D&O policies may include a prior acts exclusion that limits coverage for wrongful acts that occurred before the policy was in effect. This exclusion means that claims related to prior wrongful acts will not be covered under the current D&O policy.

C. Insured versus insured

D&O policies may exclude coverage for claims brought by one insured party against another insured party. This exclusion is to prevent collusion between directors and officers to defraud the company.

D. Employment practices liability

D&O policies may exclude coverage for employment practices liability claims, including discrimination, harassment, and wrongful termination. This exclusion is because these claims are typically covered under employment practices liability insurance policies.

E. Bankruptcy or insolvency

D&O policies may exclude coverage for claims related to bankruptcy or insolvency.

F. Punitive damages

Most D&O policies exclude coverage for punitive damages. This exclusion is because punitive damages are intended

G. Wage & Hour Claims

A wage and hour exclusion in a D&O policy is a clause that limits coverage for claims related to violations of wage and hour laws, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

While the above exclusions are common, it’s essential to review your D&O policy carefully to understand the specific exclusions that apply. It’s worth noting that some exclusions may be negotiable or removable through endorsements, so it’s crucial to discuss these with your insurance provider.

III. Importance of Reviewing D&O Policies

It’s vital to review your D&O policy regularly to ensure you have adequate coverage and to understand any exclusions that apply. Here are some benefits of reviewing your D&O policy:

1. Avoid coverage gaps: By reviewing your D&O policy, you can identify any gaps in coverage and ensure you have adequate protection.
2. Understand exclusions: Reviewing your D&O policy can help you understand any exclusions that apply, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the limits of your coverage.
3. Identify potential risks: Reviewing your D&O policy can help you identify potential risks and exposures, allowing you to take steps to mitigate these risks.
4. Negotiate coverage: By understanding the exclusions in your D&O policy, you can negotiate additional coverage or endorsements to fill any gaps in protection.

IV. Conclusion

D&O policies are an essential form of protection for businesses and their executives, providing coverage against legal actions related to their actions in the workplace. However, it’s crucial to understand that D&O policies also come with exclusions that limit the coverage provided. By reviewing your D&O policy regularly, you can ensure you have adequate protection and understand any exclusions that apply.

V. FAQs

1. What is a D&O policy?

A D&O policy is a form of insurance that provides financial protection to businesses and their executives against legal actions related to their actions in the workplace.

2. What are some common exclusions in D&O policies?

Common exclusions in D&O policies include fraudulent acts, bodily injury and property damage, prior acts, insured versus insured, illegal remuneration, pollution, employment practices liability, cybersecurity, bankruptcy or insolvency, wage & hour claims and punitive damages.

3. Why are exclusions important to review in D&O policies?

Exclusions in D&O policies limit the coverage provided and may leave businesses and their executives exposed to financial risk. Reviewing exclusions can help businesses understand the limits of their coverage and take steps to mitigate any potential risks.

4. Can exclusions be removed from a D&O policy?

Some exclusions may be negotiable or removable through endorsements. However, this depends on the specific policy and insurer, so it’s important to discuss this with your insurance provider.

5. What should businesses do if they are unsure about their D&O policy exclusions?

If you’re unsure about the exclusions in your D&O policy, you should speak to your insurance provider or broker. They can help you understand the exclusions that apply and identify any potential gaps in coverage.

6. How often should businesses review their D&O policy?

Businesses should review their D&O policy at least once a year or whenever there are significant changes to the company’s structure or operations.

7. Are D&O policies only for large corporations?

No, D&O policies are available to businesses of all sizes and are essential for protecting both the business and its executives from legal actions related to their actions in the workplace.

8. Can a business have more than one D&O policy?

Yes, a business can have multiple D&O policies to ensure it has adequate coverage for its unique risks and exposures.

9. Are legal defense costs covered under a D&O policy?

Yes, legal defense costs are typically covered under a D&O policy, including attorney fees, court costs, and settlements or judgments.

10. Can a D&O policy be cancelled mid-term?

Yes, a D&O policy can be cancelled mid-term by either the insurer or the policyholder. However, cancellation may result in penalties or fees, so it’s important to review your policy terms and conditions carefully.

In conclusion, D&O policies are an essential form of protection for businesses and their executives, providing financial protection against legal actions related to their actions in the workplace. However, it’s crucial to understand that these policies also come with exclusions that limit the coverage provided. By reviewing your D&O policy regularly and understanding any exclusions that apply, you can ensure you have adequate protection and mitigate any potential risks.

Should you have any questions or wish to discuss D&O insurance further, please call us at 818-233-0825 or click this link to submit a request.