Ah, the wonderful sounds of summer: the joyous song of birds, the sound of the seashore, the laughter of children frolicking outside, and the chiming melodies notifying neighborhood children of all ages that the ice cream truck has arrived.
Ironically, that upbeat sound of music announcing the ice cream truck brings an indescribable sadness to some. For the mothers, fathers and siblings of those children who died in a related accident, sound will never be reconciled.
While accidents can happen and the associated insurance coverage can come with financial protection, the dangers associated with this type of mobile frozen treat shop and the excited children waiting for their favorite treat need careful consideration. There are things parents, caregivers, and ice cream truck operators can do to mitigate the risks of death and serious injury. These include the installation of more mirrors in the vehicle and a seat bar to prevent children from getting in the way of the blind spot, as well as other safety mechanisms.
As far as insurance companies are concerned, any equipment installed to prevent accidents can result in some sort of discount on a commercial auto premium. You can also get lower rates on an already discounted insurance package that combines commercial auto insurance with a business owners policy.
For ease of reading, we have listed below the various forms of coverage related to this business.
Special commercial auto insurance for the ice cream truck business
• Commercial Auto Liability Coverage
All US states require commercial auto liability coverage to protect businesses from bodily injury liability when an accident occurs. This coverage also protects against property damage liability when the other car is damaged or when buildings or other property is damaged.
• Collision coverage
If an ice cream truck driver caused an accident that resulted in damage to his own truck, this insurance will help with repair costs or replacement costs for the truck if repair work is not an option.
• Medical payments coverage
This insurance will help pay for medical costs if the truck driver or passenger is injured in an accident.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
Uninsured/underinsured driver coverage can help pay for damage to the truck caused by another driver if he or she is uninsured or underinsured and cannot pay the repair or replacement bill in full.
For more information on insurance (commercial or business auto), talk to an independent professional agency that has the interests of its clients in mind.