Keeping your Business in Motion
Whether you have one work truck or a fleet of fifty, your vehicles are the workhorses of your business. We ensure that a fender-bender on I-275 doesn’t put the brakes on your operations.
The Magnetic Myth
Here is the most common mistake we see in Tampa Bay: A business owner slaps a magnetic logo on their personal truck and assumes they are covered.
Most personal auto policies specifically exclude coverage if the vehicle is being used for business. If you get into an accident while hauling materials or visiting a job site, your personal carrier can deny the claim instantly—leaving you personally liable for the damages.
At Novel Insurance, we structure true Commercial Auto policies that protect your business assets, your employees, and your reputation on the road..
Our Coverage Menu
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The Workhorse. For vehicles titled in the business name.
Coverage: Liability limits usually starting at $1,000,000 (often required by general contractors) and collision coverage for the vehicle itself.
Best for: Contractors, Caterers, and Delivery Services.
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The Hidden Risk. Do you send an office manager to the bank in their own sedan? Do your sales reps drive their personal cars to client meetings?
The Risk: If they cause a serious accident while "on the clock," your business can be sued. HNOA covers the business's liability when employees drive vehicles you don't own.
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The Goods. Commercial Auto covers the truck, not the stuff inside it.
The Fix: If you haul expensive materials, tools, or client goods, Cargo coverage ensures that if you roll the truck, you aren't paying to replace the load out of pocket.
How We Review Your Policy
Commercial Auto is complex. We review the "Symbols" and endorsements to ensure you have the gold standard of protection:
"Symbol 1" (Any Auto): This is the holy grail of liability coverage. It means your business is covered for liability arising from any car—owned, rented, or borrowed. We fight to get this status on your policy.
Radius Restrictions: Many policies offer cheaper rates if you stay within 50 miles. If you drive from Tampa to Orlando (85 miles) and crash, you could be denied. We check your route to ensure your radius is accurate.
Fellow Employee Coverage: If one employee accidentally backs a truck into another employee's car, standard policies often exclude the damage. We check for this gap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or contact us anytime.
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A: No. Commercial Auto covers the vehicle. Cargo coverage covers goods in transit. But tools left overnight usually require an Inland Marine (Tools & Equipment) policy. We often bundle these together for contractors.
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A: If your vehicle (or truck + trailer combo) weighs over 10,000 lbs (GVWR) and crosses state lines, OR exceeds 26,001 lbs within Florida, you likely need a USDOT number. We can help you determine your regulatory requirements.
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A: Significantly. If you hire a driver with a DUI or multiple speeding tickets, your commercial rate can double—or the carrier might exclude that driver entirely. We recommend running MVRs before you hire new drivers.
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A: Yes, and it is often a smart move. It allows for higher liability limits (protecting your personal assets) and allows you to write off the premiums as a business expense (check with your CPA).
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A: Personal auto usually splits limits (e.g., 100/300/100). Commercial policies typically use a Combined Single Limit (e.g., $1,000,000 flat). This is better because it offers a larger pool of money for a single expensive claim, regardless of whether it’s bodily injury or property damage.