Commercial auto insurance covers expenses incurred if a business-owned vehicle is involved in an accident. It's mandatory for any vehicles used exclusively for work purposes in Florida.
Every Florida business using vehicles for work purposes must carry commercial vehicle insurance, whether it's the owner's personal vehicle or a fleet of business-owned SUVs.
Personal auto insurance covers commuting but not business-related activities like deliveries or supply pickups. A business auto policy extends coverage to all vehicles used by your business, whether owned by the company, leased, or operated by employees.
All vehicles used solely for business purposes must be protected under a commercial auto policy, whether it's a single pickup truck, a food truck, or a fleet of semi-trucks and tractor trailers.
Without commercial auto insurance, your business faces legal and financial risks. Florida law mandates businesses with their own vehicles to carry at least auto liability insurance.
If a business vehicle causes an accident resulting in bodily injury, you could face costly lawsuits or settlements. You may be liable for damages to other vehicles, property, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and related expenses.
Furthermore, failure to have commercial auto insurance can lead to severe penalties. Being cited as an uninsured motorist in Florida may result in a license suspension of up to three years and a reinstatement fee exceeding $150 if proof of insurance isn't promptly provided. For repeat offenses, the reinstatement fee can escalate up to $500.
All Florida vehicles, whether personal or business, must carry minimum auto liability coverage: $10,000 for property damage liability and $10,000 for personal injury protection (PIP).
PIP covers medical payments post-accident, regardless of fault. Your insurer may recommend higher liability limits based on vehicle types and usage.
Certain vehicles with a U.S. Department of Transportation or Florida serial number may have additional liability coverage requirements, depending on vehicle type and usage. Verify if your business needs extra coverage by checking your USDOT number or docket number with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
