Frequently Asked Questions

Increase your eligibility for significant carrier savings and lower premiums by implementing some of the following business auto best practices. Carriers consistently reward fleets that demonstrate safety, driver accountability, and operational consistency. 

VEHICLE SAFETY TECHNOLOGY

· lnstall dash cams in all vehicles to promote safe driving and accountability.

· Use telematics systems for real-time tracking, driver behavior monitoring, and performance analytics.

DRIVER STANDARDS AND POLICIES Establish clear driver qualification standards, including:

· Annual MVR Check on All Drivers (with written consent from employee drivers)

· Minimum driver age requirements

· Acceptable number of points and/or moving violations

· Minimum years licensed and experience with similar vehicles

· Require all drivers to notify management immediately of any major moving violations.

· Enforce a no-distraction, text-while-driving  policy with documented acknowledgment from each driver.

CLAIMS MANAGEMENT AND ACCOUNTABILITY 

Keep claims to a minimum through proactive safety practices for each incident, document:

· Whether the driver was at fault or not 

· Preserve Police reports, photos, eyewitness statements, dash cam footage etc.

SECURE STORAGE AND RISK PREVENTION

· Park vehicles overnight in secure, well-lit; fenced areas. 

· Use cameras and/or on-site security where possible to deter theft and vandalism.

· Regular vehicle maintenance and documentation

· Daily walk-around inspection of vehicles prior to operation

· Using the company owned vehicles for business use only

· Keep a current vehicle and driver list

 Contractors need commercial auto insurance because their vehicles are used for business operations, and personal auto policies usually exclude business use or provide very limited protection. For construction businesses, vehicles are often one of the highest risk exposures.

Here are the main reasons contractors must carry it.

• Higher Liability for Accidents
• Protection for Company Vehicles
• Employee Drivers
• Contract Requirements and Endorsements 

The amount of coverage you need will depend on your specific business needs. Our agents and brokers can help you determine the appropriate amount of coverage.

• Standard Industry Limit: $1,000,000 CSL. This is the most common requirement for commercial projects and protects against bodily injury and property damage in a single accident.

You Get Access to More Options (Not Just One Company) 

• Better pricing (real competition) 
• Better coverage options 
• Access to specialty markets (critical for trucking & contractors)

Get the RIGHT Coverage the First Time

• Identifies coverage gaps (huge in construction & trucking) 
• Adds required endorsements (AI, Waiver, PNC, etc.) 
• Structures policies correctly (GL + Auto + Umbrella + Inland Marine)

 You Save Time (And Headaches)

• Shops the market 
• Handles applications 
• Negotiates with underwriters 
• Gets you bind-ready quickly 

Get Fast Certificates & Real Support 

• Issues COIs fast 
• Handles compliance requirements from GCs & shippers 
• Fixes endorsement issues quickly

•  Hired & Non-Owned Auto (HNOA): Protects the business when employees drive their personal vehicles for work tasks, like picking up supplies.
• Blanket Additional Insured: Many contracts require you to name the client as an "Additional Insured" on your auto policy.
• Inland Marine/Tools Coverage: Standard auto insurance usually does not cover the tools or equipment inside the truck; a separate Inland Marine policy or endorsement is needed.

 How Contractors and Trucking Carriers Get Certificates of Insurance Fast:

• Call 844-97-USAVE Today so we can help!