More and more people are starting side hustles, whether to make a little extra money to cover their bills, or to start their dream business. If you’re one of those people, you should consider buying a commercial auto insurance policy. It’s not just big businesses with multiple vehicles that need this coverage—it’s anyone who uses his or her vehicle for business reasons on a regular basis.
Personal auto policies almost always exclude business use, and if you’re in an accident, your claim could be denied. Be honest with your agent about the nature and extent of your business use of your vehicle so he or she can help you find the best deal on coverage you need.
Here are a few situations that call for a discussion with your agent about a commercial auto policy:
- Do you use your vehicle to pick up or deliver goods such as newspapers, pizza, or other goods, or do you provide messenger services?
- Is your vehicle registered or titled in the name of a corporation or partnership?
- Do you have employees who drive your vehicle for business purposes on an occasional or regular basis?
- Does your vehicle have special equipment permanently installed, such as ladder racks or permanent toolboxes that are used in your business?
- Do you regularly drive to job sites or to meet clients, or sometimes transport clients from one location to another?
Bottom line: If you’re using your vehicle for business purposes, you need commercial auto insurance.
Commercial auto policies are designed to protect you and your business from financial harm if you’re in an accident. Though there are many factors that must be considered when rating a commercial auto policy, since the major coverages are basically the same, commercial auto insurance doesn’t always cost more than a personal auto policy.
L & M Insurance Group is a local independent insurance agency with the expertise to help you make sure your insurance coverage will protect your business and you personally from claims, even unwarranted ones. We have been serving the car insurance and commercial auto insurance needs of Riverview and surrounding communities for more than 10 years. Call 813-672-4100 for more information about commercial auto insurance (or car insurance in general), or click here to contact us by email.
