Protect Your Operations with Expert Business Vehicle Insurance
Running a business is tough enough without worrying about what happens if your delivery van gets rear-ended or your work truck is stolen from a job site. That’s where our specialized commercial insurance comes in. At Roughley Insurance Brokers, we understand the critical role your vehicles play. They aren’t just transportation; they’re the engine of your business, helping you serve customers and maintain operations.
A crucial point many business owners miss is that a personal auto insurance policy will not provide any protection when a vehicle is used for commercial purposes. The gap in protection is significant. We have spent years helping businesses find the right commercial auto insurance, and our experience has shown us the costly consequences for companies that assume their personal insurance policy is sufficient. The financial fallout can be devastating.
Ready to protect what matters? Getting a detailed quote for the right commercial vehicle insurance is the first step. Let’s work together to determine the exact insurance your business needs to be fully protected.
Why Commercial Vehicle Coverage is Essential
Here’s a surprising fact: a significant number of small business owners mistakenly believe their personal auto insurance policy covers business use. This is a dangerous misconception. The moment you use your vehicle for any commercial activity, whether delivering products, visiting clients, or hauling equipment, you need a proper commercial vehicle insurance policy. This isn’t just a smart business decision; it’s a legal requirement. Consider the potential liability. If one of your employees causes an accident while driving a commercial vehicle, are you prepared for a lawsuit that could result in massive financial damages? Your personal insurance policy will offer no support, leaving your business assets exposed.
However, the right commercial auto insurance is designed for this exact liability. We worked with a small plumbing business whose owner learned this the hard way. He believed he was protected by his personal auto insurance until a minor accident occurred en route to a job. His insurer denied the claim, leaving him responsible for thousands in repairs and damages. This scenario is avoidable with the correct insurance policy.
Proper commercial auto insurance also protects your employees, safeguards against the theft of tools and equipment from a commercial vehicle, and provides the resources to keep your business running after an incident. Let’s chat about your specific commercial insurance needs to ensure you have the right protection.
Your Commercial Auto Insurance Coverage Options
Let’s break down what a robust commercial auto insurance policy actually includes, as the protection extends further than many realize.
The Essentials:
- Third-Party Liability: This is the cornerstone of your protection. We typically recommend at least $1 million in liability coverage, though some businesses opt for more depending on their risk profile. This liability insurance is what pays for injuries and property damage to others if your driver is at fault.
- Accident Benefits: This provides for medical costs, rehabilitation, and income replacement for your injured drivers. It is a mandatory part of any auto insurance in this region.
- Direct Compensation – Property Damage: This part of the insurance policy handles repairs to your own commercial vehicle after an accident where you are not at fault.
- Uninsured Motorist Protection: This is a vital safeguard against drivers who operate without the legally required insurance.
Recommended Additions:
- Collision and Comprehensive Protection: This addresses theft, vandalism, fire, and weather-related damage to your vehicle. The value of this comprehensive protection cannot be overstated.
- Fleet Insurance Packages: If you operate multiple vehicles, this is a cost-effective way to manage your insurance.
- New-Vehicle Replacement: Ensures you get a current model if your new commercial vehicle is a total loss
- Towing and Rental Reimbursement: This insurance helps minimize downtime after an incident.
One of our construction clients avoided a major business disruption when his work trucks were vandalized. His comprehensive policy component replaced $30,000 worth of stolen tools within a week. That’s the peace of mind that comes with the right commercial auto insurance.
What Kind of Businesses Need This Type of Auto Insurance?
If you’re wondering whether your operation requires commercial auto insurance, consider this. Do you use a vehicle for any of the following?
- Delivery and courier services
- Construction and contracting work
- Ride-sharing or taxi services
- Service calls (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, etc.)
- Sales visits or client meetings
- Transporting goods or equipment
If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these, you need a commercial insurance policy for that vehicle. A common mistake is thinking that ‘occasional’ use doesn’t count. Even infrequent business use of a vehicle necessitates a commercial auto insurance policy, not a standard car insurance plan.
We worked with a real estate agent who faced severe consequences for this misunderstanding. After an accident while driving to a showing, her insurer discovered the commercial use of the vehicle. They denied the claim and cancelled her personal insurance policy entirely. She was left with significant out-of-pocket expenses and the challenge of securing new insurance. If your operation uses a commercial vehicle, let’s ensure you have the proper auto insurance.
Why Choose Us as Your Go-To Insurance Broker?
Here’s the advantage of working with us: as an independent insurance broker, we are not tied to any single insurance company. We work for you. This independence allows us to shop the market with multiple top-rated Canadian insurers to find you the best possible commercial auto insurance at the most competitive price.
Our years of experience in this specific field of insurance mean we know the regulations inside and out. We have firsthand knowledge of which insurers provide excellent claims service and which ones to avoid. When something goes wrong, an inevitability in business, we are your advocates, here to help you navigate the entire claims process.
Recently, a client’s delivery van was stolen. Instead of facing the insurance company alone, they called us. We handled everything as their broker, securing a rental van the same day, fast-tracking their claim, and getting them back on the road with a new vehicle in two weeks. That is the value an experienced broker brings to your business insurance needs. Plus, we actually answer our phones. Ready to work with an insurance broker who genuinely cares about your business? Let’s talk.
Our Simple and Transparent Insurance Process
We keep our process straightforward because your time is valuable. You have a business to run, and dealing with complex insurance paperwork shouldn’t be on your agenda.
- Step 1: Consultation. You tell us about your business, your commercial vehicle or vehicles, how they are used, and who drives them. We gather the basics to understand your specific insurance needs.
- Step 2: Market Search. We go to work, leveraging our network to get quotes from multiple insurers. We compare the details of each commercial auto insurance policy to find the optimal balance of protection and price for your budget
- Step 3: Review. We present your options to you in a clear, easy-to-understand manner. There's no pressure and no confusing jargon, just a straight conversation about what each insurance policy covers and what the premiums will be. We'll make sure you understand the liability coverage and other key aspects before you make a decision.
- Step 4: Implementation & Support. Once you've made your choice, we handle all the paperwork. Our role as your insurance broker doesn't end there; we provide ongoing support, help with policy updates, and offer claims assistance whenever you need it.
We can typically present you with a competitive insurance quote within 24-48 hours. Want to get started?
Saving on Your Automobile Insurance Premiums
No one wants to overpay for their commercial auto insurance, but cutting corners on protection is a risk not worth taking. Here’s how you can achieve lower premiums the smart way:
- Bundle Your Policies: If you have multiple vehicles or other business insurance needs (like general liability), bundling them with one insurer can lead to significant savings, often 10-15% or more on your total insurance cost.
- Invest in Driver Training: Some insurance providers offer discounts for businesses that have formal driver safety programs. This is a win-win: it's good for your premiums and for your team's safety.
- Choose Deductibles Wisely: A higher deductible can lower your insurance premiums, but you must be sure you can comfortably pay that amount out-of-pocket if you need to make a claim on your policy.
- Use Technology: Telematics devices like dash cams and GPS tracking can sometimes lead to discounts on your auto insurance. They also serve as excellent tools for managing your fleet and promoting safe driving.
We assisted a courier company in saving $2,400 annually on their fleet insurance by implementing a driver safety program and installing dash cams. Their insurer rewarded these proactive measures, and the company has seen a reduction in accidents since. Want to see how much you could save on your commercial auto insurance premiums? Let’s review your current policy and find opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Auto Policies
When do I need commercial auto insurance?
The moment a vehicle is used for any business purpose. It doesn’t matter if it’s your only vehicle or used infrequently for work, any commercial use requires a specific commercial auto insurance policy, not a personal car insurance policy.
How is a commercial auto insurance policy different from personal coverage?
Commercial auto insurance policies are designed for business use, featuring higher liability limits and options for covering equipment and tools. A personal auto insurance policy will have specific exclusions for any business-related activities.
What factors influence my commercial auto insurance premium?
Your industry, the type of commercial vehicle, driver records, selected liability limits, deductibles, and the specific use of the vehicles all impact the final cost of the insurance. A delivery company will have a different risk profile and premium than a real estate agent.
Can small businesses with a single vehicle get this insurance?
Absolutely. We provide commercial auto insurance for everyone from sole proprietors with one work truck to companies with large fleets of vehicles.
Is it possible to update my insurance policy later?
Yes, your commercial auto insurance policy can and should be adjusted as your business grows or your needs change. However, establishing the right foundational insurance from the start is often more efficient and cost-effective.
Trusted by Local Businesses, Hear From Our Clients
We’re proud to work with operations across the province, from Toronto to Thunder Bay and everywhere in between.
“Roughley saved us thousands on our fleet insurance and got us better protection than we had before. When one of our trucks was in an accident, they handled everything so we could focus on running our business.” – Mike T., Construction Company Owner
“As a small delivery service, we couldn’t afford to be without our van. When it got stolen, Roughley got us a rental the same day and had our claim processed in record time. Their help with our commercial auto insurance was invaluable.” – Sarah L., Courier Service
“I thought I was covered under my personal policy until I had an accident during a service call. Roughley sorted out the mess and got me proper commercial coverage that actually protects my business.” – David R., HVAC Technician
Mike, 22, Ottawa: “My landlord required proof of insurance before I could move in. I got a quote on a Tuesday and had my tenant insurance policy and proof letter by Wednesday. Super smooth process.”
Jessica, 31, Hamilton: “Someone slipped on ice and tried to sue me. My personal liability coverage from my tenant insurance handled everything, legal fees, settlement, the whole mess. Best $30/month I’ve ever spent on any insurance.”
4.9/5 Google Rating from Ontario Clients
Ready to Secure the Right Liability Coverage?
We could continue discussing why commercial auto insurance is vital, but you likely already understand its importance. The real question is who you will partner with for this critical protection. Will you work with a dedicated insurance broker who understands your operation and advocates for your best interests, or will you take a chance with direct writers who may see you as just another policy number? We have helped hundreds of businesses protect their vehicles, their drivers, and their bottom lines. We know the insurance market, we know the insurers, and we know how to secure the insurance policy you need at a price you can live with.
Ready to get started? Call us at [phone number] or fill out our simple form to get a quote. We’ll have competitive quotes for your commercial auto insurance to you within 24 hours.
Still have questions? Shoot us an email at [email] or stop by our office. We’re here to help.
Trusted by Local Businesses, Hear From Our Clients
We’re proud to work with operations across the province, from Toronto to Thunder Bay and everywhere in between.
“Roughley saved us thousands on our fleet insurance and got us better protection than we had before. When one of our trucks was in an accident, they handled everything so we could focus on running our business.” – Mike T., Construction Company Owner
“As a small delivery service, we couldn’t afford to be without our van. When it got stolen, Roughley got us a rental the same day and had our claim processed in record time. Their help with our commercial auto insurance was invaluable.” – Sarah L., Courier Service
“I thought I was covered under my personal policy until I had an accident during a service call. Roughley sorted out the mess and got me proper commercial coverage that actually protects my business.” – David R., HVAC Technician
Ready to Secure the Right Liability Coverage?
We could continue discussing why commercial auto insurance is vital, but you likely already understand its importance. The real question is who you will partner with for this critical protection. Will you work with a dedicated insurance broker who understands your operation and advocates for your best interests, or will you take a chance with direct writers who may see you as just another policy number? We have helped hundreds of businesses protect their vehicles, their drivers, and their bottom lines. We know the insurance market, we know the insurers, and we know how to secure the insurance policy you need at a price you can live with.
Ready to get started? Call us at [phone number] or fill out our simple form to get a quote. We’ll have competitive quotes for your commercial auto insurance to you within 24 hours.
Still have questions? Shoot us an email at [email] or stop by our office. We’re here to help.
Get a Quote
We’ll find you the right coverage.
Roughley commercial clients may qualify for special discounts on your home & auto.
