Right in the phrase "commercial auto insurance," you have auto, for automotive. That means a vehicle that is automatically powered — not something you have to push, row or pedal.
But, if you're running a business on your bicycle, you don't want to go without insurance. You're not legally required to carry insurance on a bicycle, since liability concerns are relatively minor. But when you're pedaling all day for work, you're covering many more miles than a hobbyist, and you're inviting more and more liability with every delivery. So how do you get covered?
Ask About Bicycle Courier/Messenger Insurance
Look for an insurance company that offers bicycle courier or messenger insurance. You might not be carrying messages — you might be carrying food or other deliveries instead. But many commercial insurers still use "bicycle messenger" as a general term for people who make a living on human-powered vehicles.
Some policies may include protection not only for liability and for your bicycle, but also for your cargo.
You're more likely to find a good courier policy through a business, bicycle or specialty insurance company than a company that specializes in commercial auto insurance.
Ask Your Employer
If you work for an agency, chances are they already have some insurance in place. If you cause an accident, chances are the injured party is going to be more interested in going after your employer over the damages than they will be in going after you. This might leave your bicycle uninsured — since that's your property, not the agency's.
Talk To Your Bicycle Insurer
If you already carry an insurance policy on your bicycle, talk to your Dave Millet Insurance agent about the nature of your work.
Bicycle courier insurance can be kind of a blurry area. It's not a legal requirement, since a bicycle is not technically an automobile. But if you pedal for a living, it's unwise to go without protection.
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