If you’re a risk manager, safety officer, or other company stakeholder, you know the liability exposure for company vehicles inside and out. You regulate and maintain your fleet and your drivers on a daily basis, and do everything you can to avoid being part of auto incidents. But your liability may not end with your company fleet. If your business allows employees to use personal vehicles to conduct business, you might be exposing your company to additional risk. Liberty Mutual recommends establishing guidelines to help your company mitigate risk and better protect your employees and company.
- Establish hiring guidelines. Make sure employees have valid driver’s licenses and obtain motor vehicle records (MVRs) to review accidents and other behind-the-wheel incidents.
- Clarify expectations for drivers. Have employees sign vehicle use agreements. Agreements should require that employees abide by state and local laws, refrain from distracted driving and never consume alcohol or drugs during work hours. Consequences should be outlined as well.
- Evaluate liability coverage. Set standards for employees’ automobile liability coverage. Contact your Client Relations Agent today to review coverage based on your business exposure.
- Require regular vehicle maintenance. Follow manufacturers’ recommended maintenance schedules, including inspection of tires, wipers, fluids, lights and brakes. Have a supervisor inspect regularly.
- Update your approved driver list. Have all permitted employees on an approved driver list. This documents that the employee has a good driving record, understands responsibilities behind the wheel and has adequate insurance coverage.
- Encourage a culture of safety. Regularly send tips and reminders while providing proper training. Leaders should lead by example. For more info, check out Deeley Insurance Group’s blog How to Create a Strong Workplace Safety Culture.
Read the full Liberty Mutual article with detailed guidelines here.
