Scott,
My insurance carrier requires that I let them know the first thing when I am contacted about a potential lawsuit, Granted, I may head off a complaint by taking care of something before it gets to that point, but once the summons, or even a letter from an atty. show up, I'm required to contact my carrier.

I think a majority of complaints that may end up in court could have been taken care of for less that $5000.
JF