loader

What Does Commercial Auto Insurance Cover in an Accident?

May 07, 2025

Commercial Vehicle Insurance

What Does Commercial Auto Insurance Cover in an Accident?

Businesses that rely on vehicles to deliver goods, meet clients, or move equipment understand how important it is to stay protected on the road. Accidents can happen without warning, even when your drivers are careful. When they do, having the right insurance can make a big difference.

Let's explore what commercial auto insurance coverage typically includes after an accident and how it can help protect your business from major financial setbacks.

Damage to Your Business Vehicle

One of the first things people worry about after an accident is damage to their vehicle. Commercial auto insurance can help pay to repair or replace your business vehicle if it's damaged in a crash.

The damage could be minor, like a dented bumper, or more serious, like a total loss. Depending on your coverage level, the policy will usually cover repairs up to the vehicle's actual cash value.

Damage to Other People's Property

If your driver hits another vehicle, fence, wall, or piece of equipment, your policy can help cover the costs of those damages. This part of your insurance is called property damage liability.

It can help with:

  • Fixing or replacing the other person's car
  • Repairs to buildings or other property
  • Avoiding out-of-pocket costs for damage your business caused

This type of protection is essential for businesses that regularly operate large trucks or equipment.

Injuries to Other People

Accidents sometimes cause physical harm to others involved. If your driver is at fault, your insurance can help cover the injured party's medical expenses. This coverage is known as bodily injury liability.

It may cover:

  • Emergency medical care
  • Hospital stays and follow-up visits
  • Lost wages for injured individuals
  • Legal expenses if a lawsuit is filed

Without this kind of support, your business could face serious financial risks.

Injuries to Your Driver or Passengers

Some commercial auto insurance policies also help cover medical costs for your driver or passengers. This part of the policy might be called medical payments coverage or personal injury protection.

It helps pay for:

  • Medical treatment for your employees after an accident
  • Ambulance services and hospital bills
  • Rehabilitation costs

This means your employees can get the care they need without delay, regardless of who was at fault.

Legal Costs and Lawsuits

Your commercial auto insurance coverage can help with legal fees if an accident leads to a lawsuit. This includes paying for an attorney, covering court costs, and paying any settlements or judgments if your business is found responsible.

Legal problems can be expensive and stressful. This part of your coverage is designed to reduce that pressure so you can focus on running your business.

Extra Protection Options

Many businesses choose to add extra features to their policy for stronger protection.

These may include:

  • Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage: Helps if your driver is hit by someone with no insurance or too little coverage
  • Collision coverage: Pays for your vehicle damage in accidents, even when your driver is at fault
  • Comprehensive coverage: Covers non-accident events like theft, fire, vandalism, or falling objects

These extras can be helpful based on your business needs and how your vehicles are used daily.

How John E. Peakes Insurance Agency Covers Commercial Auto Accidents

Understanding what is included in commercial auto insurance coverage helps business owners make more intelligent decisions about protecting their teams, vehicles, and operations. From damage repairs and injury claims to legal support and extra protection, this type of insurance plays an essential role after an accident.

At John E. Peakes Insurance Agency, we are committed to helping businesses stay protected on the road with coverage that works for their needs. Contact us today at 1-800-800-5199 to explore the right commercial auto insurance options for your business and keep your operations running smoothly.