What is Non-Owned Auto/Dominos Pizza Franchisee Program?
This coverage is designed for Domino’s franchise owners who regularly have employees driving vehicles they do not own for business purposes, and for operators who rent or borrow vehicles as part of deliveries or operations. It supplements or fills gaps in primary commercial auto policies by addressing commercial auto exposure, non-owned automobile liability, and related third-party claims.
Who needs it
Typical applicants include franchise operators, part‑time delivery teams, and store managers who rely on drivers using personal or rented vehicles. Smaller franchisees and multi‑store operators often add non‑owned or hired auto protection to their existing commercial liability program to manage transportation risks and meet landlord or corporate contract requirements. For related program options that focus on hired drivers, see Hired Auto Liability/Dominos Pizza Franchisee Program.
What it typically covers
Standard elements may include third‑party bodily injury and property damage from vehicles your business doesn’t own, legal defense for covered incidents, and excess limits over a personal auto policy when a covered employee is driving. Programs can interact with commercial liability, property coverage for store assets, and equipment coverage for delivery tools. Some franchise programs also offer endorsements for hired autos or supplemental liability to align with corporate requirements.
Example risk scenario: a driver’s vehicle causes a collision during a delivery, creating both bodily injury and property damage claims against the franchisee.
Common exclusions or limitations
Expect standard exclusions such as coverage gaps for intentional acts, drivers not listed or not authorized, business use excluded under a personal policy, and damage to the driver’s own vehicle. Policies may limit coverage for professional drivers, high‑risk vehicle use, or for employees driving outside defined work tasks. Underwriting factors and exclusions vary by carrier and program.
Factors that influence cost
Insurers base premiums on claims history, number of drivers, delivery radius, vehicle types used, risk management practices, and payroll or revenue. Operational controls such as driver training, vehicle maintenance programs, telematics, and formal authorization procedures can reduce rates. The presence of other coverages—like strong commercial liability or primary auto policies—also affects pricing and available limits.
Proof of insurance & compliance
Franchise agreements or local ordinances may require certificates of insurance, named insured endorsements, or minimum liability limits. Carriers usually issue ACORD certificates showing non‑owned or hired auto coverage and any additional insured endorsements requested by landlords or corporate franchisors.
How to get a quote
Start by collecting driver lists, vehicle usage details, revenue or payroll numbers, and any current commercial auto or general liability policies. If you need program‑specific options for Domino’s franchisees, review the Non-Owned / Domino's Pizza Franchisee Program and the broader Domino's Pizza Franchisee Program for comparison. Before finalizing coverage, talk to your agent to confirm limits, endorsements, and any state‑specific requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does non‑owned auto cover damage to a driver’s personal vehicle?
No. Non‑owned auto typically covers third‑party bodily injury and property damage liabilities, not physical damage to the driver’s own vehicle; separate physical damage or rental coverage may be required.
Will a personal auto policy always respond first?
Often a personal auto policy is primary for a personal vehicle’s liability, with the business policy providing excess or supplemental coverage. This depends on policy language and the nature of the use—confirm with carrier documentation.
How can I lower premiums for delivery risk?
Implementing driver safety programs, using telematics, enforcing driver authorization procedures, and keeping accurate records can reduce underwriting exposure and help lower costs over time.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.