Craft brewers who operate vehicles as part of their business activities typically need commercial auto insurance rather than personal auto insurance. Commercial Auto Insurance is designed to cover vehicles used for business purposes, and it provides coverage for liabilities and risks that may arise during the course of business operations.
Craft brewers may use vehicles for various reasons, such as transporting raw materials, delivering finished products to retailers or customers, or attending events and festivals. If these vehicles are owned or used by the brewery for business purposes, a commercial auto insurance policy is usually necessary.
Here are some key considerations for craft brewers regarding automobile insurance:
Commercial Auto Insurance
This type of insurance provides coverage for vehicles used for business purposes, including those owned or leased by the craft brewery.
Liability Coverage
Craft brewers should ensure that their commercial auto insurance includes liability coverage, which protects against claims for bodily injury or property damage caused by their vehicles.
Cargo Coverage
If the brewery transports goods or raw materials using its vehicles, cargo coverage may be necessary to protect against damage or loss of the transported items.
Hired and Non-Owned Auto Coverage
If employees use their personal vehicles for business purposes (e.g., making deliveries), the brewery may need hired and non-owned auto coverage to protect against liability arising from the use of non-owned vehicles for business activities.
Specialized Coverage
Depending on the specific needs of the craft brewery, additional specialized coverages may be required. For example, if the brewery operates food trucks or mobile taprooms, insurance considerations may be more complex.