There are many threats facing your commercial vehicles that are out of your control. Drivers—both yours and others—can make mistakes and there’s no way to predict that. Other incidents, however, can be prepared for, including weather.
Though weather can be volatile and unpredictable (especially in Florida), you can still take certain measures to protect your company’s commercial vehicles.
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Invest in Covered Parking
Covered parking isn’t always possible, but when it is, take advantage of it. Normal-sized company cars can be stored in normal garages or parking garages while larger vehicles may be stowed under a covered parking shield. Keeping commercial vehicles covered when not in use can protect against hail, rain, birds, wear and tear from sunlight, and more.
Wax On
Keeping a healthy coat of wax on commercial vehicles can help prevent damage due to wind, salt and pollen. This is especially important during spring and in areas near the water. This will not only help with the aesthetics, such as protecting words and symbols that have been pasted or painted onto the work vehicles, but it can also prevent build up causing mechanical problems later on.
Purchase Hail Car Covers
If covered parking isn’t an option, you may also purchase hail car covers for your commercial vehicles. These can range anywhere from $30 to over $300 depending on the size and quality. Hail car covers protect against hail and other falling objects that may damage the work vehicle.
Educate Every Driver on What to Do in Case of Emergency
If one of your drivers is caught out in a storm, it’s important that they know what to do in case of emergency. They should not exit the vehicle if it is hailing. Instead, they should immediately seek covered parking and remain in the vehicle until the hail passes. The same goes for floods. Each driver should be aware of the roads that are likely to flood so they can avoid them. If your company has hail car covers, make sure each driver knows how to put them on and does so before leaving the vehicle.
Review Your Comprehensive Coverage
As a business that owns or uses vehicles for work purposes, you likely have a commercial auto insurance policy. A standard policy comes with comprehensive coverage, which provides compensation for damages caused by:
• Fire
• Lightning
• Hail
• Wind
• Falling rocks or tree branches
• Animals
• Theft
• Vandalism
Check your policy to ensure that you have the right coverage limits to compensate in case your vehicles are damaged due to environmental damages. Larger and more expensive vehicles will need higher coverage limits. Comprehensive coverage typically comes with a $500 deductible, although this depends on your specific policy. You may choose a higher deductible in return for lower monthly premiums. This also means that you will pay more out of pocket when it comes time to file a claim.
Purchase Anti-Theft Locks
Although not weather-related, human activity is part of your environment. Whether you live in a location with high rates of criminal activity or not, it’s well worth it to invest in some type of anti-theft system. Even a light showing that your company’s vehicles are protected with anti-theft locks can put off potential thieves. This is important both for the vehicle and any valuable items that may be left inside.
Be Aware
The biggest part of protecting your vehicles is being attentive. Always know the weather forecast so you can anticipate when a storm may roll in. Also keep an eye on any overarching tree branches or animals that may pose a threat to your commercial vehicles.