Buying Commercial Auto Insurance
By Leo Chu
How to choose the right commercial auto insurance for your business? Below are some things to consider when deciding which insurance to buy:
1. Number of vehicles and drivers to be insured
Commercial auto insurance policies differ in terms of the number of vehicles covered in each policy. Fleet insurance is cost-efficient for businesses with several vehicles to insure, as cost of insurance per vehicle is cheaper than getting a separate insurance for each of them.
2. Knowing the Definition of Commercial Use
Just as personal auto policy does not cover claims arising from commercial use of insured vehicles, a commercial auto insurance policy restricts coverage to vehicles specifically intended for business purposes. Consult your broker to better understand restrictions stipulated in the policy.
3. Tips to Get Cheaper Rates
Factors that affect the cost of auto insurance are:
- Business Location: Expect higher premiums if your business location has high theft statistics.
- Driving History: Hiring drivers with poor driving record increases the risk score of your business.
- Model of Vehicles: The cost of automobile insurance is directly related to the price of a vehicle. Mid-sized models and those that pass safety standards get lower premiums.
- Amount of Deductibles: Deductibles refer to a portion of a claim that must be paid first by each policy holder before the insurer shoulders other expenses.
- Anti-Theft Devices: Installing alarms, GPS receivers, and safety devices like air bags and seat belts also helps decrease premiums.
4. State Requirements for Commercial Vehicle Insurance
State governments may impose requirements for the insurance of commercial vehicles.
5. Determine If There Is a Need for Commercial Auto Insurance
A businessman who uses his personal vehicle for occasional business travel has little benefit to gain from getting a separate commercial policy. However, as explained above, a commercial policy is needed when personal auto insurance distinguishes between personal and commercial uses.
Commercial insurance is more applicable to businesses that operate a fleet with special equipment.
6. Knowing the minimum coverage
Depending on the business location, you may be required to get liability insurance, personal injury protection and coverage for underinsured and uninsured motorists.
Liability insurance covers expenses resulting from an accident in which the policy holder is at fault.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP), also known as no-fault coverage or basic economic loss benefits, reimburses medical bills, lost wages, and replacement services arising from an accident.
Underinsured and uninsured motorist policies respectively shoulder the damages caused by underinsured and uninsured motorists.
7. Other factors to consider when buying commercial insurance are the equipment attached to vehicles, the primary purpose of vehicles, and business assets that will be put at risk in the event of lawsuit.
About The Author
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