Do you use your own vehicle for business? If so, it’s important to understand that not all auto insurance is the same, and a personal auto insurance policy typically won’t cover damage to your car if you’re using it for commercial purposes.
Even if your personal policy includes “business-use” coverage, you may find yourself at a loss when an accident happens, especially if your liability limits are not high enough to cover the damage. Be sure you’re protected; contact your independent insurance agent today to review the following questions.
- How do you define “commercial use?” Some insurance companies may simply define it as transporting goods for compensation or a fee, which could include services such as:
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- pizza and newspaper delivery
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- catering
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- door-to-door consulting services
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- landscaping or snowplowing services
- day care/church van services
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With some insurance companies, even real estate agents may qualify. Do you fall into one of these categories? Get clarification from your agent and then if necessary, consider a commercial auto insurance policy.
Not sure whether commercial auto insurance is right for you? Review the following additional questions with your agent to help you determine whether you should secure this type of coverage.
What are my liability limits? In general, a commercial auto policy can offer higher liability limits, as larger vehicles, like delivery vans, can cause more damage than passenger cars.
- Does my personal policy cover me for issues specific to my business? Suppose you have a trailer that damages another vehicle while on a job, for instance. In this case, a personal auto policy may not cover the repairs, but a commercial policy will.
- Do I have employees who drive my vehicles? In general, if other people drive your vehicles for work, you need a commercial auto policy.
You also a need commercial auto insurance policy if your vehicle hauls tools or equipment weighing more than 500 pounds, makes deliveries, or requires filings for interstate for for-hire trucking businesses.
If you are using your own car for work, insurance represents a crucial concern. At Eaton & Berube, your protection is our priority. Make sure you understand your coverage and any gaps that exist; call us today at 603-882-2766 to learn more about New Hampshire commercial auto insurance coverage, or click here to submit our online quote request form.
For a more in-depth look at the differences between personal and commercial auto insurance policies, visit www.progressivecommercial.com. For additional insurance information, safety tips, and other useful resources, please subscribe to our blog or contact us.