Many people don’t know that Business Auto Coverage (BAC) provides protection against a broad range of hazards arising out of “autos”. This is different than “mobile equipment” Which is generally defined as automotive equipment designed for use on public roads.
You will find in the BAC two types of coverage, Liability and Physical Damage. You can also get other coverages which are basic to business auto exposures, and added by an endorsement to the policy. Each state may have different kinds of coverage, but some may be Personal Injury Protection, Medical Payments or Uninsured Motorists.
LIABILITY COVERAGE.
Liability coverage protects those who are “insured” from legal liability for bodily injury, property damage to others, or caused by auto accidents. Generally the insurer also agrees to defend insured against all liability claims for which coverage is afforded.
PHYSICAL DAMAGE COVERAGES.
Coverage for accidental damage to those designated as “covered autos,” in your policy without regard to fault, is available through Physical Damage coverage. Physical Damage is generally broken up into subsections
The first section, collision or overturn and the second section, causes other than collision or overturn, which may be either “all-risk”, (Comprehensive) or for named perils (Specified Causes of Loss).
Basic Understanding of Business Auto
Driving with Hazard Lights on is Illegal in Florida
It has been a big discussion on social media: motorists who use their hazard lights while driving in the rain.
In Florida, it is illegal to drive with your hazard lights. Hazards lights are for stopped vehicles only, officials say. The one situation where Florida drivers are allowed to use their hazards when in motion is when the vehicle is being used in a funeral procession.
An FHP spokesperson said that flashers are for emergency situations. “First responders look for flashers to see if someone needs help.”
Law enforcement officials say hazard lights can actually reduce visibility making other drivers think you are stopped or stalled.
Other drivers say flashers make it difficult to see when a motorist is tapping the brakes or using a turn signal.
The FHP spokesperson says if visibility is so bad that you cannot see, pull over in a parking lot, plaza or somewhere safe until conditions improve.
Florida has a high number of out of state drivers that may not know this law or believe it is acceptable or even helpful to drive with hazard lights on in the rain. If you are one of these drivers or know someone who does this please let them know it is not only illegal according to Florida Statute 316.2397, but its also dangerous.
“Our blogs are for general education and information only and may not represent your unique needs. Coverages will vary. Please contact your insurance agent to verify your specific policy terms and conditions.”
Crash Statistics 2013
Annual Global Road Crash Statistics
- Nearly 1.3 million people die in road crashes each year, on average 3,287 deaths a day.
- An additional 20-50 million are injured or disabled.
- More than half of all road traffic deaths occur among young adults ages 15-44.
- Road traffic crashes rank as the 9th leading cause of death and account for 2.2% of all deaths globally.
