Commercial Auto Insurance in Georgia

Georgia is home to over one million small businesses, many of which may rely on vehicles to operate efficiently. Whether you're delivering goods, transporting tools and equipment, or providing services on-site, having the proper commercial auto insurance may be helpful.  

If your business uses vehicles for work purposes, commercial auto insurance is not just a good idea, but often a legal requirement. Here is some helpful information on commercial auto insurance in Georgia, the state requirements, how much commercial insurance may cost, and how Infinity Insurance Agency, Inc. (IIA) can help you find coverage that fits your budget.  

What is commercial auto insurance?

Commercial auto insurance is a form of insurance that may cover vehicles used for your business. This may include cars, trucks, or vans that are used to transport goods, people or equipment for your business. Unlike personal auto insurance which covers personal uses like commuting, commercial auto insurance can help cover damages that may affect your vehicles used for business-related purposes.

Having commercial auto insurance may also be crucial for complying with state laws and helping to keep your finances in order. By following the state requirements and finding coverage that meets your business needs, you may be able to better navigate accidents or damages that could negatively affect your operations.  

Commercial auto insurance requirements in Georgia

In Georgia, commercial vehicles must meet minimum liability insurance requirements. These mandates are in place to help cover certain damage to a third party if your business vehicle is responsible. Georgia’s commercial auto insurance requirements are:

• $25,000 for property damage liability to a third party’s property  
• $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person
• $50,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per accident

These are the basic auto insurance coverage requirements in Georgia, but some businesses may choose to purchase additional coverage, such as collision, comprehensive, or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Depending on the policy, having additional coverage may help your business avoid paying out-of-pocket for certain accidents or injuries.    

Auto insurance options for businesses in Georgia

At IIA, we work with carriers that offer a wide range of coverage options that may help your business avoid financial issues. Some of these options include:

• Liability coverage: This coverage can help pay for property damage to a third party or injuries to someone else caused by your business vehicles.
• Collision coverage: This insurance can help pay for repairs to your vehicle if it’s damaged in an accident.
• Comprehensive coverage: This can help cover damages from non-collision incidents like theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: This coverage can help pay for damages to your vehicle if you're in an accident with a driver who has little or no insurance.

Who needs commercial auto insurance in Georgia?

There are many types of businesses in Georgia that may need this insurance. If your business uses vehicles, chances are commercial auto insurance can help. Here are some of the most common industries and business types in Georgia that may need this type of coverage:

• Wholesale delivery and pickup: If your business involves delivering goods to customers or picking up products from suppliers, you may need this insurance.
• Contractors/handymen: Contractors who travel to various job sites may want commercial auto insurance to help cover their vehicles.
• Painters: Painting businesses may use vehicles to get to their clients. Depending on your policy, commercial auto insurance can help cover your vehicles if damaged.  
• HVAC: HVAC contractors may rely on vehicles for their business, which can make commercial auto insurance an important expense.
• Landscaping / lawncare services: Landscapers and lawncare professionals typically use trucks or trailers to haul tools, plants, and other equipment. Depending on your policy, commercial auto insurance can help provide coverage for business-related vehicles in case of an accident.

How much does commercial auto insurance cost in Georgia?

The cost of commercial auto insurance can vary widely depending on several factors. These can include:

• Type of business: Certain businesses that engage in higher-risky activities, like a delivery truck transporting heavy materials, may experience larger premiums.  
• Vehicle type: The vehicle your business operates and how they are used may influence your rates. 
• Driver history: The driving records of you and your employees can impact your insurance costs. A history of accidents or traffic violations may increase your premium.
• Coverage limits: If you choose higher liability limits or additional coverage, your premium may be more costly.

While the cost of commercial auto insurance can vary widely, business owners may be able to reduce their premiums by taking advantage of discounts such as bundling policies, paying the premium in full, or having a clean driving record. Working with an experienced insurance agent can help you see which discounts you may be eligible for.