Fleet Safety Programs for Restaurants
Many people are unaware of the fact that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of on the job injuries. Did you know that full-time drivers are not involved in the majority of crashes? All employees from managers to employees running errands contribute to a majority of motor vehicle crashes. Unfortunately too many employees are excluded from their company’s fleet safety programs and find themselves involved in crashes that sometimes cause fatalities. These particular circumstances often time lead to a policy limit loss under the business’ commercial auto policy. Let us consider a particular example provided by Liberty Mutual:
“A restaurant chain manager was using a personal vehicle to attend an offsite meeting…During the travel to the meeting the manager hit another vehicle from behind. The crash resulted in a fatality. The manager had not been included in the fleet safety program because he was not assigned a company vehicle…The crash resulted in a policy limit loss under the chain’s auto policy.”
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This problem necessitates that businesses, particularly those like restaurants who rely heavily on company fleets implement effective safety programs. Effective safety programs according to Liberty Mutual:
- Establish and follow guidelines that identify which employees may or may not operate motor vehicles on company business.
- Conduct and document driving record reviews annually.
- Establish minimum liability limits of at least $100,000 per person and $300,000 per occurrence.
- Utilize a company policy statement stating drivers must comply with all state laws and regulation regarding motor vehicle operation.
- Adopt a policy on alcohol, controlled substance and distractions for operation of vehicles on company business.
Liquor Liability & Vehicle Incidents
With around between 40 percent to 60 percent of patrons choosing to drive after consuming alcohol, bars, restaurants, and taverns must take steps to address exposure to liquor liability claims. Costs from liquor liability claims resulting in vehicle crashes are high; $1,000,000 claims do happen and force businesses to incur heavy fines and face closure. Having clear cut policies regarding the sale and serving of alcohol is a must, especially when concerning intoxicated persons and minors. Employees should also be trained on how to control exposure through trainings that teach and emphasize pro-activity.
We at Insurance Incorporated would be happy to answer your questions regarding Fleet Safety and Liquor Liability. If you need assistance in establishing a fleet safety program or think you will need coverage for your business, please don’t hesitate to call us for a quote at 877-428-8778.
