• How do you define "commercial use"? Some insurers may simply define it as transporting goods for compensation or a fee. That could include services like:
• pizza and newspaper delivery;
• catering;
• door-to-door consulting services;
• landscaping or snowplowing services; or
• day care/church van services.
Even real estate agents may qualify. Fall into one of these categories? Consider a commercial vehicle policy.
Here are some questions to ask to determine if commercial auto insurance is right for you.
• What are my liability limits? In general, a commercial auto policy can offer higher liability limits. Larger vehicles, such as delivery vans, can cause more damage than passenger cars.
• Does my personal policy cover me for issues specific to my business? For example, if you have a trailer that damages another vehicle while on a job, a personal liability policy may not cover the repairs. 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 need a commercial auto 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.
An independent insurance agent can help you better understand business needs and put together a package that meets your needs. Find an agent at www.progressiveagent.com.
Want to learn more about the differences between personal and commercial auto insurance policies? Visit www.progressivecommercial.com.
