California-based insurtech Next Insurance has announced the expansion of its employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) for restaurants. The coverage is now available with general liability in 28 states and Washington, D.C.
Next’s EPLI coverage provides additional protection against lawsuits involving discrimination, sexual harassment, wrongful termination and more, the company said.
EPLI coverage can also help pay legal expenses associated with Americans with Disabilities Act compliance complaints.
Small businesses like restaurants can be more vulnerable to employment practice claims because they often lack human resources departments, employee handbooks or legal staff, Next said. This can make them targets for customer and employee lawsuits related to rights violations, wrongful discipline, benefits mismanagement and more. A recent study found that mental stress and other injuries are on the rise among restaurant workers.
“Employment practice lawsuits can be costly to resolve and emotionally draining, which is especially important now for those who have been hit hardest by the pandemic like restaurant owners,” said Richard Yeung, vice president of insurance at Next. “EPLI is a distinct type of insurance coverage that helps pay for legal fees for discrimination claims that may not be covered by other policies like workers’ compensation.
“This expansion of Next’s offerings provides our customers with additional protection so that they can focus on growing a successful business rather than stressing over financial concerns in the wake of investigation costs, judgments or settlements.”
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With the launch of its EPLI insurance for restaurants, Next is offering $25,000 in EPLI coverage as part of its Pro package and $50,000 in EPLI coverage as part of its Pro+ package. The offer is available to both new and existing customers.
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