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Commercial Auto Insurance

Do you normally use a personal vehicle for business purposes? Well, the news is that you might need to purchase commercial auto insurance. You may wonder what this is all about but worry less. This article will take you through commercial auto insurance, how it helps, and where and when it is made a necessity.
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Understanding Commercial Auto Insurance

Commercial auto insurance is a type of insurance that protects businesses that use vehicles for business purposes. It includes cars, trucks, vans, and other commercial vehicles.

Of course, in your day-to-day business activities, you might encounter minor to major business-related accidents, and that’s where commercial auto insurance comes in handy.

It can help cover the costs of damages and injuries that occur. Moreover, it can help protect businesses from liability if their employees are involved in an accident while driving a business-owned vehicle.

In a nutshell, commercial auto insurance can help protect your business from financial loss if your business is involved in an accident.

Who Needs A Commercial Auto Policy In Ohio?

In Ohio, a Commercial Auto Policy (CAP) is required for any business that owns or leases a vehicle used for business purposes. It includes cars used for deliveries, sales, or service calls. A CAP can also provide coverage for rented or borrowed cars for business use. This policy offers your vehicle coverage in the event of an accident, theft, or damage. Let’s look at these businesses that require commercial auto coverage.

Specific Industry's Who Need Commercial Vehicle Insurance

Food Vendors And Caterers 
Plumbers
HVAC Technicians
Electricians
Landscapers & Similar Providers 
Contractors
Painters
Carpenters
Mechanics
Bakeries
Cleaning Services
Snow Plow Businesses
Sales Organizations
Real Estate Professionals
Lawn Care
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Food Vendors and Caterers
Starting a food business is a huge undertaking. Not only do you have to worry about the quality of your product, but you also have to navigate the world of commercial auto insurance. These businesses typically use vehicles to transport food and supplies to and from events. In most cases, food vendors and caterers must have a commercial auto policy to be properly insured. ​ As a food vendor or caterer, it’s important to have the right commercial auto insurance to protect your business. There are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a policy, including the type of vehicle you’re using and the coverage you need.
In this informative image, we explore the concept of Commercial Auto Insurance, specifically tailored for Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians. The central focus of the image is a skilled plumber dressed in a green shirt and overalls, diligently inspecting a variety of pipes. With a focused and knowledgeable expression, the plumber exemplifies the expertise and professionalism required in these trades. The pipes and tools surrounding the plumber symbolize the essential equipment utilized by these tradespeople in their daily operations. The image represents the importance of Commercial Auto Insurance for professionals in these industries, highlighting the need to protect their vehicles used for business purposes, such as transporting tools, equipment, and materials. It emphasizes the significance of insurance coverage for accidents, damage, and liabilities that may occur during commercial operations. This visual representation underscores the critical role of Commercial Auto Insurance in providing financial protection and peace of mind to Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians, allowing them to focus on their core responsibilities and deliver their services efficiently.
Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians

A commercial auto policy may be necessary if plumbers and electricians use their vehicles for business purposes. It could include transporting tools or materials or traveling to multiple job sites. A commercial auto policy will cover any damages or injuries if the plumber or electrician is involved in an accident while using their cars for business.

As an HVAC technician, you are responsible for maintaining and repairing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. You may work in both residential and commercial settings, which can be physically and mentally demanding. Because of the nature of your work, it’s essential to have commercial auto insurance that will protect you in the event of an accident.

In this informative image, we explore the concept of Commercial Auto Insurance, specifically tailored for Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians. The central focus of the image is a skilled plumber dressed in a green shirt and overalls, diligently inspecting a variety of pipes. With a focused and knowledgeable expression, the plumber exemplifies the expertise and professionalism required in these trades. The pipes and tools surrounding the plumber symbolize the essential equipment utilized by these tradespeople in their daily operations. The image represents the importance of Commercial Auto Insurance for professionals in these industries, highlighting the need to protect their vehicles used for business purposes, such as transporting tools, equipment, and materials. It emphasizes the significance of insurance coverage for accidents, damage, and liabilities that may occur during commercial operations. This visual representation underscores the critical role of Commercial Auto Insurance in providing financial protection and peace of mind to Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians, allowing them to focus on their core responsibilities and deliver their services efficiently.
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An image of a landscaper at work, dressed in a green shirt and pants, pushing a lawn mower over a green lawn. The landscaper is focused on the task at hand, with the lawn mower emitting grass clippings as it moves. The image conveys a sense of diligent and hardworking labor, as well as the beauty and peacefulness of a well-manicured lawn.
Landscapers and Similar Providers
A landscaper works in the business of landscaping, which involves planning, designing, and installing plants and other features on a property. Landscapers can work on both residential and commercial properties. As a business owner, you’re always looking for ways to reduce costs and increase efficiency. One way to do this is to have the right commercial auto insurance to protect you from any potential liability arising from your business activities.
An image of a professional painter using a paint sprayer to paint a wall, with a large window visible in the background. The painter is wearing navy shorts, a grey t-shirt, and tennis shoes, and appears to be focused on applying the paint evenly with the yellow and white paint sprayer. The image conveys a sense of skilled craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the use of modern tools and techniques in the painting industry.
Painters, Carpenters, and other types of Contractors
Now that we know commercial auto coverage is vital for any business that uses cars in its operations, painters, carpenters, and all other types of contractors are similarly included. There are some circumstances where a contractor may need a commercial auto policy, such as when transporting tools or materials for their business or using their cars for business purposes.
An image of a professional painter using a paint sprayer to paint a wall, with a large window visible in the background. The painter is wearing navy shorts, a grey t-shirt, and tennis shoes, and appears to be focused on applying the paint evenly with the yellow and white paint sprayer. The image conveys a sense of skilled craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the use of modern tools and techniques in the painting industry.
An image of a girl working as a car mechanic in a mechanic shop, with a car raised on a lift behind her. She has a ponytail and is wearing an earring, showing her unique style. She appears focused and skilled, as she works on the car's engine with a wrench in her hand. The image conveys the idea of breaking stereotypes in a male-dominated industry and showcases the talent and hard work of female mechanics.
Auto Mechanics

Commercial auto insurance for auto mechanics is an important type of insurance for those who work in the automotive industry. Auto mechanics need commercial auto insurance for a variety of reasons.

First, they will need this type of insurance to protect their business assets if they own a business.

Secondly, their employer may require this insurance if they work for someone else.

Finally, if they use their car for business purposes, they must ensure that it is properly insured.

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Bakeries

With commercial auto insurance coverage, companies can protect their cars from damages that may occur while they are in use.

In addition, commercial auto insurance will also protect the bakery if one of its employees is involved in an accident while driving a company vehicle.

When it comes to running a bakery, there are a lot of things to keep in mind to ensure the success of your business. One of the most important things to consider is commercial auto insurance. Here are three tips to help you find the right commercial auto insurance for bakeries:

  • Ensure you are properly insured: This may seem like an obvious tip, but it is important to ensure that you have the right type and amount of insurance for your business. It would help if you spoke to your insurance agent to ensure you are properly covered.
  • Consider your business needs: Every business is different, so you will need to tailor your insurance coverage to fit the specific needs of your bakery. Make sure to consider the type of vehicles you use, how often they are used, and what they are used for.
  • Get quotes from multiple insurers: It is important to get quotes from various insurers to find the best rate for your business. At Ellerhorst Russell we have multiple carriers to give you options.

Bakeries typically purchase commercial auto insurance to protect themselves from the financial risks of owning and operating a vehicle.

By having the proper insurance in place, bakeries can help ensure that they can continue operating in the event of an accident or other covered event.

An image of six chocolate-covered pretzels with a chocolate drizzle on top, arranged on a piece of cardboard that is resting on a pink counter. The pretzels appear to be freshly made and still glistening with chocolate, and the drizzle adds an elegant touch to the presentation. The image suggests a delicious and indulgent treat, with the contrast between the pink background and the brown pretzels adding a touch of whimsy.
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An image of a professional cleaner, depicted as a female with a ponytail, wiping the back of a computer monitor in an office setting. The cleaner is wearing a white t-shirt and a jean apron, suggesting a practical and efficient approach to the task at hand. The image includes a desktop with a keyboard, two books, a calculator, and a lamp, as well as a set of shelves in the background containing picture frames and boxes. The image conveys a sense of diligence and thoroughness, with the cleaner's work suggesting a commitment to maintaining a clean and organized workspace.
Cleaning Services

As a cleaning service professional, you understand the importance of having the right insurance to protect your business. There are a few things to remember when shopping for commercial auto insurance for cleaning services.

The first is that the type of vehicle you use will affect your rates. If you have a van or truck that you use for your business, you will likely pay more for your insurance than if you have a car. Secondly, the size of your business will also affect your rates. A larger company will usually pay more for insurance than a smaller one. Finally, the type of work you do will also affect your rates. If you drive a lot, you will likely pay more for your insurance than if you do not.

An image showing two white pickup trucks with red snow plows and bright snow plow lights, situated in a snowy outdoor setting. The snow is falling heavily, creating a wintry and picturesque scene. The trucks appear to be ready to tackle the snow-covered roads, highlighting their utility and reliability in challenging weather conditions.
Snow Plow Services

Most states require that professionals carry a commercial auto policy when operating a snow plow. This policy provides coverage for vehicles used for business purposes and typically includes higher limits than a personal car insurance policy.

If you’re operating a snow plow without the proper insurance, you could face significant penalties, so it’s important to ensure you’re properly covered.

An image showing two white pickup trucks with red snow plows and bright snow plow lights, situated in a snowy outdoor setting. The snow is falling heavily, creating a wintry and picturesque scene. The trucks appear to be ready to tackle the snow-covered roads, highlighting their utility and reliability in challenging weather conditions.
An image of a girl working in a clothing store, wearing a white button-up shirt and a yellow tailor's measuring tape around her neck. She is looking at a computer screen and taking notes on a small notepad with a pen in her hand, while simultaneously talking on a cell phone. The image suggests a busy and productive environment in the fashion retail industry, with the girl actively engaged in multiple tasks to provide excellent customer service.
Sales Personnel
Sales personnel are always on the move to meet clients and prospects. They may use their vehicle for business purposes, which exposes them to certain risks. A commercial auto insurance policy can protect salespeople against these risks. The policy can cover damages to the vehicle and injuries to the driver and passengers such as bodily injury liability. It can also cover third-party liabilities, such as property damage and bodily injury. A commercial auto insurance policy can give salespeople the peace of mind of knowing that they are protected in the event of an accident.
An image of a realtor entering a house to prepare for a showing. The realtor is wearing a white top and a black pencil skirt, exuding a professional and confident demeanor. The room is white with wooden accents, and the railing of the staircase is visible in the foreground. The image conveys a sense of a spacious and well-designed home, with glimpses of the living room visible in the background, while the realtor's presence suggests a personalized and attentive approach to the home-buying process.
Real Estate Professionals
In the United States, a “real estate professional” is someone who performs services related to the sale or lease of real property. These services can include property management, appraisals, and brokerage. A real estate professional may require a commercial auto policy if they drive their vehicle for business purposes. This policy will cover damages caused by the professional while driving, including to the professional’s vehicle.
An image of a realtor entering a house to prepare for a showing. The realtor is wearing a white top and a black pencil skirt, exuding a professional and confident demeanor. The room is white with wooden accents, and the railing of the staircase is visible in the foreground. The image conveys a sense of a spacious and well-designed home, with glimpses of the living room visible in the background, while the realtor's presence suggests a personalized and attentive approach to the home-buying process.
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Types of Insurance Offered at Ellerhorst Russell Insurance Agency

Ellerhorst Russell Insurance Agency LLC offers a variety of insurance products to meet the needs of individuals, families, and businesses. The agency provides both personal and business insurance coverage.

While personal insurance covers auto, boat, watercraft, homeowners, motorcycles, Life, RV, and private umbrella insurance.

Business Insurance caters to commercial auto insurance, auto dealer insurance, Marine dealer, body shop, commercial umbrella insurance, office, retail, manufacturing, contractors, farm, and bond insurance.

Why is Commercial Auto Insurance Important?

Commercial auto insurance is important for businesses because it can help protect them from liability if one of their employees causes an accident while driving a company vehicle. The business could be sued for damages if an employee is found at fault for an accident.

Here are examples of risks that commercial auto insurance can help protect against:

Liability Coverage
Physical Damage
Medical Payments
Comprehensive Coverage
Lawsuits 
Optional Add-ons
An image of two business professionals in an office setting. One person is a female with long brown hair, wearing a white button-up shirt with a black suit jacket and dress pants. She is holding a pen and a clipboard, and appears to be showing something on the clipboard to the second person in the image. The second person is a male wearing a white and blue button-up shirt with a suit jacket and khaki dress pants. Both individuals are sitting at a desk or table, surrounded by office equipment and supplies, suggesting a professional work environment.

Liability Coverage

Commercial auto insurance protects you if you are sued for damages caused by your vehicle. This type of insurance can help cover the costs of legal defense and any damages that may be awarded to the plaintiff.

Physical Damage and Collision Protection

Commercial auto insurance protects you if you are sued for damages caused by your vehicle. This type of insurance can help cover the costs of legal defense and any damages that may be awarded to the plaintiff.
An image of two business professionals in an office setting. One person is a female with long brown hair, wearing a white button-up shirt with a black suit jacket and dress pants. She is holding a pen and a clipboard, and appears to be showing something on the clipboard to the second person in the image. The second person is a male wearing a white and blue button-up shirt with a suit jacket and khaki dress pants. Both individuals are sitting at a desk or table, surrounded by office equipment and supplies, suggesting a professional work environment.
An image of three small plastic toy cars arranged on a surface, with a judges gavel visible in the background. The first car is yellow and facing towards the left side of the image, while the second car is blue and appears to have been flipped on its passenger side. The third car is red and sitting on its driver side door, with the underside visible. The toys are shown in clear detail, with their small size suggesting they are miniature replicas of real cars. The inclusion of the judges gavel in the background adds a playful touch to the image, evoking a sense of fun

Medical Payment and Lawsuit Coverage

Commercial auto insurance is such a savior when it comes to protecting you from financial losses if you are sued or if you are responsible for someone else’s injuries.

If you do not have commercial auto insurance, you may be required to pay for the other person’s medical expenses and damages out of your pocket.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive insurance covers damages to your vehicle from events other than collisions, such as theft, fire, or vandalism. It also comes in handy when your vehicle is damaged by animals or has broken windshields.
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Protection beyond personal auto Insurance policies

Commercial auto insurance is indubitably important for several reasons.

First, it can provide vehicle coverage not covered by personal auto insurance policies.

Second, it can protect what is offered by personal auto insurance policies.

Third, commercial auto insurance can be customized to meet the specific needs of a business, which may not be possible with personal auto insurance.

Finally, commercial auto insurance can protect a business in the event of a lawsuit.

Optional Add-ons for even more security

If you’re looking for even more security for your commercial auto insurance, consider adding an optional add-on. It can provide you with additional protection in an accident or other mishap.
An image of a small wooden toy car, placed underneath a small umbrella held by someone's thumb and index finger, against a solid pink background. The wooden car appears to be handcrafted, with a charming and timeless design. The image suggests a playful and imaginative atmosphere, with the toy car and the umbrella inviting the viewer to imagine a miniature world of adventure and wonder.

What else does commercial auto insurance cover

Commercial auto insurance can cover various things beyond just the vehicle itself. It can also cover medical expenses, lost wages, and even legal fees if you are involved in an accident.

Why is Commercial Auto Insurance Important?

There are a few things that commercial auto insurance does not cover. These include:
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Medical expenses that are unrelated to an accident when an employee is driving a company vehicle

Sometimes an employee might be experiencing medical conditions such as malaria, flu, or any that you could think of. If the employee suffers from such a condition, then commercial auto insurance will not cover such situations. But it will cover the medical conditions that result from accidents. In other words, commercial auto insurance covers only the complications sustained as a result of the accident.

The contents inside your business vehicle

Commercial auto insurance does not cover tools and equipment. Whatever you carry with you to your business won’t be paid for in case of any loss or damage. If you have permanently attached tools and equipment to your vehicle, your commercial auto policy will cover its losses. But first, they must be aware of the items.

Accidents that occur when an employee drives a personal vehicle for business reasons

Suppose you use your vehicle for business purposes. In that case, this includes commuting to and from work, running errands, and any other personal use; commercial auto insurance will not cover the possibility of any damages.

Many insurance companies view business drivers as riskier than personal drivers. That’s why you may need auto insurance that specifically covers driving for work purposes.

Repairs to a rental vehicle you are driving while waiting for your company car to be fixed after an accident

If you rent a vehicle for business use, it is not covered by commercial auto insurance. You must purchase a separate policy or add the car to your existing policy.
An image depicting a red car that has been involved in a serious accident, with visible damage to the front driver's side panel. The car is surrounded by two ambulances and two police cars, suggesting that emergency services have responded to the scene. The image conveys the gravity of the situation and the need for prompt medical attention and police intervention.
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Recap on Business Automotive Insurance

Commercial auto insurance is vital for businesses relying on vehicles to conduct operations. It can help protect your business from accidents, theft, or other damages. While it is not mandatory in all states, it is always a good idea to have coverage in case of an unforeseen event.

If you’re looking for reputable and trusted commercial insurance in Ohio, Ellerhorst Russell Insurance Agency LLC is one of the most reliable insurance agencies for your business in Ohio. In addition to commercial auto insurance, Ellerhorst Russell Insurance Agency LLC also offers personal insurance, business, and farm insurance

Contact them today, and they will work closely with you to ensure they understand your needs and protect you accordingly!

What Sets Ellerhorst Russell Apart?

You may wonder what makes this full-service insurance agency the best and what differentiates it from others. Well, here is why:

  • Ellerhorst Russell Insurance Agency LLC offers a variety of flexible payment options to meet the needs of its clients.
  • They understand that not everyone has the same financial situation, so they offer a variety of payment plans to fit each client’s budget.
  • They also offer various insurance plans, so their clients can get the coverage they need at a flexible price.

Advantages of Working with Ellerhorst Russell Insurance Agency LLC

Did you know that Ellerhorst Russell Insurance Agency is one of the leading insurance agencies in Ohio specializing in business insurance, and experts in commercial automotive insurance? Aside from being in business for over ten decades, they have a reputation for providing their clients with quality and timely insurance products and services.

There are many advantages to working with Ellerhorst Russell Insurance Agency. Be sure to have all your insurance needs covered because;

  • They offer comprehensive insurance coverage to protect you from various potential risks.
  • The agency has a team of experienced customer service representatives available to answer questions and help policyholders with their insurance needs.
  • Ellerhorst Russell Insurance Agency also offers a variety of online tools and resources to help policyholders manage their insurance coverage.

If you are looking for a reliable and reputable insurance agency to work with, then Ellerhorst Russell Insurance Agency is a great choice. They will be able to provide you with the coverage you need at a price you can afford.

Contact them today to get started on your insurance needs.

How Do I Get A Quote For Commercial Auto Insurance?

Ellerhorst Russell Insurance Agency will work with you closely to understand your needs and make sure you’re properly protected.
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Ohio state law requires all commercial auto policies to have a minimum liability limit of $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage (i.e., 25/50/25). Some policies are required to carry higher limits based on the types of vehicles they insure.
Commercial Property, Inland Marine, Boiler and Machinery, and Crime are the most common commercial property coverage lines.
Business auto insurance is usually more expensive than personal car insurance because coverage is generally higher and the risks are higher as business vehicles are on the road at busier times.

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