Nowadays, it’s quite challenging to avoid getting sued. Everyone gets offended at the slightest things, and you could end up in a courtroom even if your wheel is 1 cm on the crosswalk while someone is on it.
At the same time, one must also remember that each country and state comes with its laws, meaning that something 100% legal in your hometown could be illegal somewhere else. For example, lighting a sky lantern in Portland will get you in court, and only a Mesa DUI Lawyer could get you out of trouble.
Therefore, here are some basic/common tips that will help you stay away from the courtroom!
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Learn the Laws Before You Travel
As mentioned above, things you may know as legal can be illegal in other states or countries. Because of this, one should always familiarize himself with the law’s peculiarities of the places he is going to visit.
Moreover, if you plan to get behind the wheel during your travels, make sure you’re up-to-date with the newest country- and state-wide traffic laws and regulations.
Have Appropriate Insurance
Insurance won’t prevent you from getting sued, but, in most cases, it will allow you to negotiate with the other party and reach a settlement. Naturally, a friendly settlement means no court (and even lawyer) fees and taxes.
At the same time, insurance also comes in handy when you’re sued — most of the trial/claim will be dealt with by your lawyer and the insurance company.
Policies and Procedures
As an employee or employer, it is always recommended to institute various procedures and policies if you’re in a position that allows you to do so. Why?
Because procedures explain to your colleagues what you expect of them and, most importantly, prove that you are a reasonable person. Appropriate office and workplace policies often prevent people from getting sued.
Honor Your Agreements
Many countries/states consider verbal agreements as legally binding. As such, one must keep their word and honor their agreements if they want to avoid getting sued.
When it comes to employees and/or partners, the thing they must not do is breach a legally-binding contract that they signed or agreed to. Doing so will most likely result in legal action.
Sue Intelligently
If you have to sue, then sue with your brain. Many individuals sue companies and businesses for the smallest of things and then end up paying the price. Why?
Because people usually forget that the entities that they sue can sue them back. If you sue a driver for careless driving and they think that you’re wrong, they will sue you for defamation or something similar.
Keep in mind what we said above and be reasonable – even when suing for damages.
The Bottom Line
Overall, common sense can help you avoid getting sued. At the same time, reasonableness and decent behavior can also work in your favor excellently and keep you away from the courtroom.
For example, fake sexual assault allegations can be quickly settled if the entire office knows about your honor, reputation, reasonableness, and integrity.
