Commercial Auto
Liability and Physical Damage

What is Commercial Automobile insurance?

Commercial Automobile Insurance, also known as Commercial Auto insurance, is a type of insurance coverage designed to protect businesses and their vehicles. This insurance provides financial protection in case of accidents, damage, or other incidents involving vehicles used for business purposes. It is distinct from personal auto insurance, which covers vehicles used for personal reasons.

What does a Commercial Auto insurance policy cover?

Commercial Auto insurance covers vehicles that are owned, leased, or used by a business. This can include cars, trucks, vans, and other types of vehicles that are used for business operations. Some of these coverages include:

• Liability Coverage: Like personal auto insurance, Commercial Auto insurance includes liability coverage. This helps pay for bodily injury or property damage for which the business is found legally responsible in the event of an accident.
• Physical Damage Coverage: This component covers the cost of repairs to the business's vehicles in case of damage resulting from collisions, vandalism, theft, or other covered perils.
• Medical Payments Coverage: This coverage helps pay for medical expenses for injuries sustained by the driver and passengers in the insured vehicle, regardless of who is at fault in an accident.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: In case the business vehicle is involved in an accident with a driver who is either uninsured or underinsured, this coverage helps protect against financial losses.
• Coverage for Non-Owned Vehicles: Some Commercial Auto policies extend coverage to vehicles that are not owned by the business but are used for its purposes. This can include vehicles owned by employees.

Does a small business need Commercial Auto insurance?

Whether a small business needs Commercial Auto insurance depends on various factors related to its operations and vehicle use. Here are some considerations:

• Business Vehicle Use: If a small business owns or uses vehicles for business purposes, such as transporting goods, making deliveries, or providing services, it is likely to need Commercial Auto insurance. Personal auto insurance typically does not cover vehicles used for commercial activities.
• Ownership of Vehicles: If the business owns vehicles that are used for business operations, it is generally advisable to have Commercial Auto insurance. This coverage helps protect the business from financial losses in case of accidents, injuries, or property damage involving the business vehicles.
• Type of Business Activities: Certain types of businesses inherently involve more risk when it comes to vehicle use. For example, businesses involved in delivery services, construction, or transportation are more likely to need Commercial Auto insurance due to the increased exposure to accidents and potential liabilities.
• Employee Vehicle Use: If employees use their personal vehicles for business purposes, the business may still need non-owned auto coverage as an extension of Commercial Auto insurance. This provides coverage for liabilities arising from the use of non-owned vehicles for business activities.
• Contractual Requirements: Some contracts or agreements with clients, vendors, or partners may require a small business to carry Commercial Auto insurance. It's essential to review contractual obligations to ensure compliance.
• State and Local Regulations: Some states or local jurisdictions may have specific insurance requirements for businesses that use vehicles. It's important to be aware of and comply with these regulations.

What vehicles are covered by Commercial Auto Insurance?

Commercial Auto insurance typically covers a variety of vehicles used for business purposes. The specific types of vehicles covered can vary based on the insurance policy and the needs of the business. Here are common types of vehicles that may be covered by Commercial Auto insurance:

• Company Cars:Vehicles owned by the business and used for business operations, including cars, SUVs, and sedans.
• Delivery Trucks: Trucks used for the transportation of goods or products. This can include box trucks, cargo vans, and other types of delivery vehicles.
• Service Vehicles:Vehicles used for providing services, such as plumbing, electrical work, or maintenance services. This may include trucks or vans equipped with tools and equipment.
• Commercial Vans:Vans used for business purposes, including passenger vans, cargo vans, or utility vans.
• Trailers: Trailers that are owned or used by the business and towed by commercial vehicles. This can include trailers used for transporting goods or equipment.
• Construction Vehicles: Vehicles used in the construction industry, such as dump trucks, cement mixers, and other specialized construction vehicles.
• Fleet Vehicles: Businesses with a fleet of vehicles, including a mix of cars, trucks, and vans, can obtain coverage for their entire fleet.
• Rental Vehicles: Some commercial auto insurance policies may provide coverage for vehicles that the business rents or leases for business purposes.

Contact an insurance agent for more information

Contact an insurance agent for more information on selecting the right Commercial Auto policy for your business. Contact us, and we can provide you with an insurance agent in your area.