Commercial Auto Insurance

Commercial auto insurance is important. A large percentage of businesses need commercial auto insurance and the benefits that come with that type of policy, although some are not aware of that need. Since each situation is unique, we work hard to communicate with business owners to determine what coverage is necessary.

When your company uses vehicles of any type (cars, vans, trucks, etc.) in the course of business, that vehicle really must be considered an extension of your company. Any damage or injury that involves a company vehicle directly involves you and your company. This is why a commercial auto insurance policy is so important; it is one of the critical factors in protecting you against a huge risk.

Here are some questions that we hear about commercial auto insurance:

How much commercial auto insurance do I need?

This is something that we would want to discuss with you, since each situation is unique. We will figure out how much coverage would be ideal, and also figure in your preferences as well as your budget. All of these would be calculated while keeping in mind the minimum legal requirements for this type of insurance. Since there are several types of insurance that are included in this one commercial auto insurance policy, we would figure the coverage and the premium for each one individually, then simply add them together for the total coverage and the total premium.

If a vehicle is covered, can any of my employees drive it?

Prior to purchasing this type of policy, you will want to make a list of all of the employees who may drive one of your company’s vehicles. It may be that each car or truck will be assigned to a primary driver, or perhaps any driver could end up driving any company vehicle. Obviously, anyone driving a company vehicle would need to have a valid driver’s license at a minimum. There may be certain endorsements required, or a particular class of license may be required, depending on the type of vehicle, and what is being transported. We can help you get that sorted out and understand which of your employees will be eligible for which vehicles.

Can I get a discount for a large fleet?

Many of the insurance carriers do offer discounts for various reasons, including having several vehicles insured under the same policy. You may also be eligible for a lower premium based on your claims history, and if you enroll in direct billing.

What is actually covered in a commercial auto insurance policy?

There are different types of coverage included. The policy will cover any injury to any person if the injury was caused by a company vehicle. It also includes coverage if the vehicles itself is damaged or stolen. Anything that is being carried in the vehicle would be included in the damage coverage. Property other than the vehicle itself would be covered (for example, if the company truck runs into a building and damages it. This policy also protects you in the event one of your company cars is involved in a crash wherein the other driver does not have any insurance (appropriate called uninsured motorist coverage). There may be some other miscellaneous coverages included in the policy; we can go over those details with you.

Does commercial auto insurance cover my trucks while they are on my premises?

To protect your fleet of vehicles overnight while they are in your secure parking lot, you may not need to purchase this type of policy.  We may be able to get that coverage by adding it to your current property insurance policy.

We provide commercial auto insurance in Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, Port Charlotte, Parrish, Punta Gorda and North Port, FL.