Coping with the Stress of a Legal Claim: A Guide for Inflatable Operators

 
Coping with the Stress of a Legal Claim: A Guide for Inflatable Operators 

Receiving a solicitor’s letter notifying you of a pending claim or possible court case can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. It often arrives looking like any other piece of mail—perhaps a bill, an event invitation, or a business promotion—until you open it and realize the serious implications for your business, your livelihood, and your family. 

As the founder and director of the Irish Inflatable Hirers Federation (IIHF) since its formation in 2011, I have advised many inflatable operators (insured and not insured) facing this difficult situation. This article is not a legal guide but rather a discussion on the emotional and mental toll that such legal threats can take and how best to cope with them. 

The Shock of Receiving a Legal Letter 

Typically, the letter will outline an incident in which a child or adult was injured on or around your inflatable, alleging that the injury was caused by negligence, a lack of duty of care, or failure to follow proper safety procedures. The wording is often filled with legal jargon, accusing you of multiple failures in protecting the claimant. The letter will usually demand a response within a short time frame, urging you to admit negligence and commit to compensating the injured party—or face court proceedings, legal costs, and further consequences. 

By the time you finish reading and rereading the letter, your breakfast may have gone cold as you try to process its implications. Everyone reacts differently—some business owners treat it as a routine risk of their industry and promptly forward the correspondence to their solicitor or insurance company. However, in my experience, most inflatable operators are devastated by such a letter. 

The Emotional Impact 

Many operators have built their businesses over years of hard work. Facing legal action can feel like a direct attack on everything they have worked for—their business, their livelihood, and even their family home. The stress can become all-consuming, interfering with sleep, dominating their thoughts, and significantly impacting their mental and physical health. 

Common emotional reactions include: 

· Shock and disbelief 

· Anger and frustration 

· Anxiety and fear about financial losses and reputational damage 

· Helplessness or depression as the uncertainty of legal proceedings looms 

I have seen even the toughest business owners—individuals who take pride in their resilience—reduced to tears when facing such legal claims. 

Managing Stress and Protecting Your Well-Being 

1. Do Not Panic 

Panic will only make the situation worse. While this is a serious issue, it is manageable with the right steps. 

2. Maintain Perspective 

Keep a sense of proportion—many legal claims do not result in court cases, and even if they do, professional legal representation is available to defend your position. 

3. Seek Support 

Talk to trusted friends, family members, or colleagues. You are not alone in this—many inflatable operators have faced similar situations. If you are a member of the IIHF, we can provide confidential support and guidance. If you are not a member and not insured you are also welcome to tap into our collective experience.. 

4. Gather Information 

Document every detail about the alleged incident. This includes: 

· The time, date, and location of the incident 

· Any witness statements 

· Any safety procedures you had in place 

· Copies of your risk assessments, contracts, and customer waivers 

5. Get Professional Help 

You do not have to handle this alone. Seek assistance from: 

· A solicitor experienced in defending such claims 

· Expert witnesses who can objectively assess the incident 

· Your public liability insurance provider (if you are insured, they should be your first point of contact) 

Delegating these tasks will help alleviate stress and ensure the best possible response to the claim. 

Understanding the Nature of Claims 

While some claims result from genuine operator negligence, many arise due to the inherent risks of play, which are outside the operator’s control. All play involves some level of risk, and as an inflatable operator, your role is to minimize these risks while eliminating unacceptable dangers. 

Final Thoughts 

If you receive a solicitor’s letter regarding a claim, remember: you are not alone, and help is available. The IIHF is here to support insured operators through difficult situations, offering guidance, community, and professional advice. By taking practical steps, staying calm, and seeking the right help, you can navigate this challenge without letting stress take control. 

If you need support, do not hesitate to contact us.