Being able to travel in a limousine is a luxurious experience. With the comfort of the interior and a professional driver behind the wheel, we usually don’t consider accidents when riding in a limousine. However, limousines are big vehicles with a wide turn radius and a large blind spot. Like any other commercial vehicle, they are susceptible to accidents. In this blog, we will discuss common accidents associated with limousines and how the correct auto insurance plan can help protect them.
What Qualifies as a Limo?
A limousine is defined as a large, luxurious sedan that usually has a glass partition separating the driver’s seat from the passenger compartment and is often chauffeur-driven. Plenty of business owners offer limousine services to the public, which requires the need for special insurance coverage.
Common Accidents and Claims
No matter how many precautions you take, accidents are sometimes out of your control. When an accident occurs, having the right insurance can help protect your business, vehicles, and employees.
Some of the most common accidents associated with limousines include:
- Sideswipes: A sideswipe occurs when the side of a limo hits a fixed object (mailbox, pole, or parked car). This may be caused by a novice driver who isn’t used to the dimensions and turn radius of a limo.
- Rear-enders: The most common accident for all types of vehicles are rear-enders. This is especially true for limos since they are heavy and cannot come to a stop as quickly as a normal passenger car.
- Driver negligence: Commercial vehicles such as limousines require a special license to operate. However, even the most experienced drivers can forget to use a turn signal or get stressed on the road which can lead to a multi-vehicle accident.
The unpredictability of accidents is what makes auto insurance so important. No matter who’s at fault, an accident will take lots of time, energy, and money to resolve. Therefore, it’s essential to understand your coverage options for limousines.
Best Coverage Options for Limousines
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) makes it mandatory for passenger carriers to be registered, licensed, and insured. Specific requirements vary by state, but without commercial auto insurance, your company will face fines and potential penalties.
Several factors will affect what type of insurance you need and how much it costs. Your business location, types of limousines, and driving record of chauffeurs all play a factor in the level of insurance needed.
Our team at KF&B are experts when it comes to the niche field of limousines. Here is a list of coverage options we offer that would benefit a limousine passenger company:
- Auto liability coverage up to $1.5 million
- General liability insurance
- Commercial auto insurance
- Auto physical damage coverage
- Garage and garage-keepers liability coverage
- Abusive conduct limited liability coverage
Working alongside our team will allow you to be a part of every step of the insurance process. We can help identify your risks and construct the perfect insurance plan to protect your fleet of limousines.
Safety Tips for Operating Limousines
Although accidents are sometimes unavoidable, the most effective way to mitigate risk is by properly training drivers and getting the right insurance coverage.
Limousine operators need to ensure that drivers are certified and properly trained for the job. Drivers also need to follow a code of good practices such as watching for blindspots, watching their speed, and always staying alert.
It’s also important for limousine drivers to be aware of corners and sharp turns as limos are much longer than a regular sedan. Limousine drivers should watch out for dirt roads and tough terrain as limousines can get stuck. Operating a limousine requires special maneuvering and attention skills, so ensure your drivers are fit for the responsibility.
Find Your Best Route With KF&B
When it comes to something as important as protecting your business’s fleet of vehicles, it’s crucial to work with experts in the industry. At KF&B Insurance, we have the knowledge and experience to guide you through all your auto insurance needs. Whether your company operates limousines, charter buses, or a mix of both, we’re here to give your vehicles the highest level of protection. For more information on our services, please contact us today to set up an appointment.