Tips to shop for the best commercial vehicle insurance

Tips to shop for the best commercial vehicle insurance

Bria Martinez

The road is indeed a dangerous place. There are so many businesses that function primarily on driving. Unfortunately for them, there are more risks, which most other companies are not susceptible to. It is because their entire operation can be at the mercy of traffic conditions, poor road conditions, irresponsible drivers, and foul weather. To add to it, vandalism, uninsured drivers, and a litigious culture only amplifies the risks and adds to the potential cost. Thus, it is quintessential to have a good strategy in place.

A crucial part of risk management involves getting your hands on the best available commercial auto insurance coverage. How to find the best commercial vehicle insurance coverage? Read on to know more.

Assess employee driving records before hiring
When you hire new employees to drive your business vehicle or use their vehicle for your business purposes, you need to conduct a Department of Motor Vehicles screening. Why? This is required because their driving record has a direct impact on the premium amount that you pay. If you hire employees with good driving records, then the premium you pay for your commercial vehicle insurance will be low. Conversely, if you hire employees with poor driving records, it will increase the overall premium amount and put your business at risk.

Be aware of your unique risks
Further, you need to consider the type of vehicles used in your business, your business operations, and every potential risk scenario. For example, do you transport clients or are you in the food delivery business, or do you haul construction equipment? Regardless of the kind of operation, each business has its share of risks, and you must be aware of it before shopping for commercial vehicle insurance.

Shop for non-owned and hired vehicle coverage
There are several businesses wherein employees utilize their vehicles for business purposes, such as running business-related errands. Further, you might also borrow or rent a vehicle to go on a business trip. In these circumstances, your commercial vehicle insurance will not necessarily cover you unless you get an optional hired auto physical damage and a non-owned and hired auto liability.

Understand the difference between commercial and personal auto insurance
Your auto insurance will not provide coverage for mishaps that can happen when driving for business purposes. A commercial policy covers the damages to your vehicle and the other vehicle involved in the same accident. It also provides liability coverage that pays for your legal fees and medical expenses when a driver sues your business.

For comprehensive coverage, shop for higher premiums
Of course, you wish to keep the premium low but think of a situation wherein your business is sued and your insurance policy does not provide for adequate coverage. Wouldn’t that be an expensive affair? We live in a litigious society, wherein people are quick to sue, and the judgments may be in several hundreds of thousand dollars. Thus, it is vital not to be miser on your liability coverage. If your business is at greater risk, it certainly needs higher coverage than what is available on your auto policy. Hence, it is vital to opt for an umbrella liability policy to assure comprehensive and greater protection.

Take measures to cut costs proactively
Businesses can also consider installing safety devices on their vehicles. So, when you shop for a new vehicle, add safety features, such as side airbags, anti-lock brakes, daylight running lights, and automatic seat belts. Moreover, anti-theft devices, such as GPS and alarm systems, can also help reduce the premium cost.

With these tips in mind, research and compare before selecting commercial vehicle insurance as per your needs and budget.

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