What steps should I take to protect my small business from liability?
As a small business owner, you should take these steps to protect your business from liability:
- Incorporate your business: Incorporating your business as a separate legal entity can limit your personal liability for business debts and other legal issues.
- Obtain adequate insurance coverage: Purchase insurance policies that cover your liability risks, such as general liability, professional liability, and product liability.
- Create and implement policies and procedures: Establish and comply with policies and procedures that promote safety, prevent harassment and discrimination, and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Keep accurate records: Maintain timely and accurate records of business transactions, contracts, agreements, and other important documents. This can help protect you against legal disputes and claims.
- Get legal help when needed: Consult with an experienced attorney whenever you have legal questions or issues that require professional legal advice. An attorney can also help you draft and review contracts, agreements, and other legal documents.
It's important to note that these steps are not foolproof and may not protect your business from all potential liabilities. To further protect your business, you should stay informed of changes in laws and regulations that may affect your business, and take proactive steps to minimize risks and avoid legal disputes.