Start with the symbols on the declarations page
Commercial auto policies use numbered "covered auto symbols" to say which vehicles each coverage applies to. One symbol may mean any auto, another only owned autos, another only autos listed on the schedule, and others hired or non-owned autos. Two policies with the same limits can respond very differently because of these symbols, so ask your agent to explain which ones appear on each quote.
Liability is often written on a broader symbol than physical damage. That is normal, because liability follows your business wherever a vehicle is used for it, while physical damage only pays to fix vehicles you have chosen to insure.
Coverage types most businesses carry
- Auto liability for injuries and property damage you cause
- Comprehensive and collision for owned vehicles
- Medical payments or personal injury protection where the state requires it
- Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage
- Hired and non-owned auto liability
Optional additions
Rental reimbursement pays for a substitute vehicle while yours is repaired. Towing and labor covers roadside help. Loss payee and lienholder endorsements protect a lender or leasing company. Additional insured and waiver of subrogation endorsements are added when a contract requires them.
Coverage details
Auto liability
Pays for injuries and damage to others when a company vehicle is at fault. Usually the largest part of the…
Learn morePhysical damage
Comprehensive and collision for vehicles the business owns or leases, with deductibles chosen per vehicle.
Learn moreHired and non-owned auto
Liability for rented vehicles and employees' personal cars used on company errands.
Learn moreSmall fleets
Running several vans or trucks? Scheduling, driver standards and how fleets are rated.
Learn moreFrequently asked questions
Do I need all of these coverage types?
Liability is required by law in nearly every state. The rest depends on whether you own the vehicles outright, what your lender requires and what your contracts ask for.
What limit should I choose?
Look first at what your clients and contracts require, then at the assets the business needs to protect. An agent can show prices at several limits so you can compare.