Finding the Best Florida Commercial Auto Insurance Company for Your Business

Operating a commercial vehicle in Florida comes with serious risks and liabilities. Protecting your business with adequate commercial auto insurance in Florida is crucial. But with so many insurance companies to choose from, how do you select the right provider? This guide examines top commercial auto insurers in Florida, key coverage options, and tips for getting the best rate.

Overview of Commercial Auto Insurance in Florida

First, let’s review some basics about commercial auto insurance in the Sunshine State:

• Required for any vehicle used for business purposes, whether owned, leased, or rented.

• Personal auto policies typically exclude business use of vehicles.

• Provides liability coverage if you or employees cause an accident while working.

• Covers damage to your commercial vehicles from collisions, vandalism, weather, theft and more.

• Includes medical payments for drivers and passengers injured in an accident.

• Helps pay for injuries or property damage caused to third parties.

• Needed by most Florida businesses from contractors to restaurants.

Florida Commercial Auto Insurance Requirements

The state of Florida mandates:

• $10,000 personal injury protection (PIP) no-fault coverage

• $10,000 bodily injury liability per person

• $20,000 bodily injury liability per accident

• $10,000 property damage liability

However, higher limits are recommended to fully protect most businesses. Also required is $5,000 minimum medical payments coverage.

Top Commercial Auto Insurers in Florida

The major insurance companies providing commercial auto policies in Florida include:

Progressive – Insures over 700,000 small businesses nationwide. Specialized claims services and 24/7 support.

The Hartford – Over 200 years of business insurance experience. Flexible usage-based insurance options.

Travelers – Top choice for mid-size and enterprise businesses. Risk control services included.

Liberty Mutual – Strong coverage for the transportation and contracting industries. New ventures welcomed.

State Farm – Competitive rates from a familiar brand. Local agent support.

Allstate – Renowned claims satisfaction and financial strength. Online quotes and service.

Start by getting quotes from several highly-rated insurers to compare pricing.

Key Factors in Florida Commercial Auto Rates

Insurance costs vary based on these core factors:

• Your industry and business type

• Vehicle types covered – light, medium, heavy trucks

• Number of vehicles needing coverage

• Driving history and motor vehicle records

• Years in business and experience

• Coverage limits and deductible levels

• Location and primary routes

• Claims history and safety record

• Discount eligibility

Getting the right insurance fit involves balancing coverage, cost, and carrier reputation.

Core Florida Commercial Auto Policy Coverages

Commercial auto policies consist of these key coverages:

Liability – Pays for injury and property damage you cause others in an at-fault accident. Needed in high limits.

Collision – Repairs damage to your vehicle from an accident, regardless of fault. Subject to deductible.

Comprehensive – Covers damage from non-collision incidents like fire, theft, vandalism, weather.

Uninsured Motorist – Protects you if hit by a driver with no insurance.

Medical Payments – Provides medical expense coverage for drivers/passengers injured in your commercial vehicle.

Rental Reimbursement – Pays for a rental car while yours is out of service for covered repairs.

Review options with your insurer to customize the right commercial auto policy for your Florida business’s situation.

Tips for Getting the Best Florida Commercial Auto Rates

Follow these tips to potentially save on commercial auto insurance costs in Florida:

• Compare quotes from at least 3 top insurers before choosing a provider.

• Take advantage of all available discounts you qualify for – multi-policy, paid-in-full, safety training, loyalty programs etc.

• Opt for higher deductibles to lower premiums if finances allow.

• Limit covered drivers to only essential employees.

• Implement robust safety procedures and driver training to prevent accidents and incidents.

• Consider usage-based “pay-as-you-drive” programs to save on low-mileage vehicles.

• Maintain a clean driving history free of violations, collisions and claims.

• Partner with an insurance agent or broker who can help negotiate rates.

With smart shopping, most Florida businesses can secure cost-effective commercial auto insurance tailored for their needs.

Filing a Commercial Auto Claim in Florida

If one of your business vehicles is damaged in an accident or incident, follow these steps:

• Report it immediately to your insurance company via phone or online. Provide detailed facts.

• Take photos of damage, surroundings, and third vehicles/property involved.

• Obtain a copy of the police report if officers responded.

• Get multiple repair estimates if you want to choose the shop.

• Save receipts for short-term rentals or other costs from the loss.

• Work collaboratively with your adjuster and provide all documentation needed to settle the claim fairly.

Maintaining thorough records helps resolve commercial auto claims rapidly so your company vehicles can get back on the road.

Purchasing Commercial Auto Coverage in Florida

When it’s time to buy a new commercial auto policy or renew an existing one, here’s the general process:

• Determine your state requirements and coverage needs.

• Ask current provider for a renewal quote first.

• Shop around and get quotes from other top insurers.

• Compare costs as well as reputation and financial ratings.

• Select the commercial auto insurer that best balances price and service.

• Review all policy documents carefully before signing.

• Pay for the annual premium or discuss financing options.

This shopping strategy helps discover the commercial auto insurance company delivering the optimal value for your Florida business.

Why Florida Businesses Choose Progressive

Many Florida companies rely on Progressive Commercial for their commercial auto insurance. Reasons for their popularity include:

• Simple quoting – Get quick online quotes anytime.

• Policy bundling – Package commercial auto with general liability, property, workers comp, etc.

• Accident forgiveness – First accident waived for qualifying insureds.

• Extended work hours – Service reps available 24/7 for payments, documents, and certificates.

• Convenient claims – Easy online first notice of loss (FNOL) and tracking portal.

• Rewards program – Cash back rewards for loyalty and referral programs.

For quality coverage at competitive rates from a trusted brand, Progressive satisfies many Florida business owners.

Finding the Right Florida Commercial Auto Insurer

Protecting your company vehicles and drivers with adequate insurance in Florida gives you peace of mind. Weigh options from leading insurers Progressive, The Hartford, Travelers, and more. Look for a carrier offering robust coverage options, top-notch customer service and claims handling, and competitive premium rates. Partnering with the right commercial auto insurance provider lets you focus on growing your Florida business.