Tom's Blog
As a business owner, you know that safety is of utmost importance each and every time one of your commercial vehicles is taken out on a job. In a split second, an accident can happen if your driver is distracted, under the influence, or careless in the operation of one of your fleet cars. Find out why you should hire safe drivers for your commercial vehicles, because it could make the difference in whether you stay in business.
Take Action Before Your Driver Hits the Road
Before you hire a driver to operate one of your commercial vehicles, it is best to do your homework to avoid what could potentially be the demise of your business reputation, costs of N.C. commercial auto insurance, and assets. Below are some tips to follow PRIOR to the hiring of your commercial drivers:
- Obtain a MVR (motor vehicle record) on the job applicant before hiring– Never hire anybody to operate your fleet vehicles without running the MVR. You will need to have the job applicant(s) give you permission to obtain this, so if they object, it may mean that person has something to hide.
- Choose drivers who have a good driving record– Once you have that MVR, review any prior moving violations/tickets of the applicant and make a wise decision before allowing them to operate any of your commercial vehicles. All it takes is one accident to ruin your good experience credit, which will result in higher auto insurance fees and can take as many as four years to regain that credit.
- Protect your reputation– Your commercial driver(s) represent your company so if one of your drivers is driving too closely, speeding, or cutting people off on the roads in one of your fleet cars with your business name on the side, it reflects poorly on your business name.
- Choose drivers who are over 25– Statistically, drivers under the age of 25 are more likely to cause accidents than those with more driving experience. Some of your business vehicles may be very expensive so make sure your drivers have many years of driving experience before you let them operate your fleet. Your responsibility in hiring commercial drivers with experience must be taken seriously.
Make the Right Choice
The drivers you hire can be valuable to your company or they can be detrimental. While accidents can still happen regardless of how safe your drivers are, hiring safe drivers for your commercial vehicles can certainly reduce your risks while increasing the likelihood of a favorable business reputation and lower insurance rates. For more information on your N.C. commercial auto insurance policy or any other insurance needs, contact us at 866-869-3335 or visit our website at paramountinsurance.net
