A vehicle fire can be one of the most dangerous situations that a business can face. It can occur for a wide range of reasons. In some situations, the damage from a single fire can lead to thousands of dollars in loss. In others, the insurance company may total the vehicle. This happens if it is beyond the ability to repair it.
Nevertheless, it is important to know if you have commercial auto insurance for this type of loss. Commercial vehicles may be too valuable to not have proper coverage on.
What Caused the Vehicle Fire?
Commercial auto insurance provides coverage for unexpected and unpreventable situations. It never covers fires or other perils related to poor maintenance and upkeep. If the company does not maintain the vehicle, this may mean the fire has no coverage. What is proper maintenance?
- The insurer may require the company to keep records of inspections and oil changes.
- The insurer will want to be sure that the company took action for any instances of repair warning, such as the check engine light coming on.
- The company also wants to be sure that all preventative maintenance required by the manufacturer is complete.
It may be necessary to show proof of this maintenance. A log of maintenance and changes or repairs to the vehicle is essential. This shows you did everything you could to prevent fires.
When Commercial Auto Insurance Applies
Your business insurance may provide coverage for some fires. This typically relates to conditions such as the following:
- An electrical fire occurs.
- A licensed mechanic makes a mistake when repairing the vehicle.
- The fire relates to someone's smoking in the vehicle.
- An accident occurs, causing a fire.
- Lightning strikes the vehicle.
These are just a few types of examples. To find out what your policy covers, read through it. Look at the exclusions as well. Then, call your business insurance agent. The agent will work closely with you to better understand the underlying cause of the fire. This will determine if your commercial auto insurance will provide you with coverage. The agent can then determine if repair is an option or if it will total the vehicle.
Keeping the vehicle in good condition is important. However, when you do that and problems arise, your business insurance coverage can step in and provide financial support. Need commercial auto insurance? Call First Insurance Group at 800-511-2892 today.
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