Types of Self Employed Mechanic Insurance Policies Available

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As a self-employed mechanic, you need insurance that protects your business and livelihood. One key aspect of self-employed mechanic insurance is the type of policy you choose.

There are several types of policies available, including liability insurance, which can help cover costs if you're sued for damages or injuries.

Business insurance, on the other hand, can provide protection for your business assets, such as tools and equipment.

Another option is commercial auto insurance, which can help cover costs if you use your vehicle for business purposes.

Liability and Protection

As a self-employed mechanic, you'll want to make sure you have the right insurance coverage to protect yourself and your business from unexpected expenses. General liability insurance can help pay for medical costs and potential legal fees if a customer is injured on your property.

For example, if a customer slips on a tool left on their driveway, general liability can help cover medical costs. This type of insurance also covers property damage resulting from business operations.

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If you perform contract work, such as construction or electrical work, you may be required to have a surety bond. This covers the cost of claims about incomplete or poor workmanship, as well as fraud and theft.

Here's a quick rundown of what you should know about liability and protection:

  • General liability insurance covers third-party bodily injury and property damage.
  • Surety bond covers claims about incomplete or poor workmanship, as well as fraud and theft.

General Liability

General Liability is a type of insurance that's essential for many businesses. It helps protect you from financial losses due to accidents or injuries caused to others.

If you run a business that involves physical products or services, you're at risk of property damage or bodily injuries to customers or clients. General Liability insurance can cover medical expenses, legal costs, and potential settlements or court judgments.

For example, if a customer slips on a tool left on their driveway, general liability can help cover medical costs and potential legal fees. This type of insurance also covers property damage, such as if you accidentally damage someone's property while working on a job.

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In fact, General Liability insurance can help you pay for medical costs, lost wages, and other expenses related to third-party bodily injuries. It's a must-have for businesses that want to avoid financial ruin due to unexpected accidents.

Here's a quick rundown of what General Liability insurance typically covers:

  • Third-party bodily injury
  • Property damage resulting from business operations

By having General Liability insurance, you can rest assured that you're protected in case of an accident. This gives you peace of mind and allows you to focus on running your business without worrying about the financial consequences of an unexpected event.

Surety Bond

A surety bond is a must-have for contractors who perform contract work, like construction or electrical work, to get a permit or business license.

This type of bond covers claims about incomplete or poor workmanship, as well as fraud and theft.

It's a common requirement for contractors, and it's often what people mean by "bonded and insured."

Cost and Savings

The cost of self-employed mechanic insurance can vary depending on several factors, including the types of repair services you offer and your business location. You can save up to 19% when you bundle general liability with commercial property coverage, especially if you have certifications like ASE, I-CAR (Gold class), or AAA-approved auto repair.

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Factors that affect your premiums include the amount and value of equipment at your garage or shop, and the number of employees you have. Payroll size and employee skill levels can also impact workers' compensation premiums. A certified shop with a clean claims history can secure better pricing.

Here are some sample premium ranges to consider:

Cost

The cost of self-employed insurance can be a major concern for many business owners. The exact cost varies based on several factors, including the number of employees, insurance coverage needs, prior claims history, and other pricing factors.

More workers you employ will mean higher workers' compensation premiums. This is because the cost of workers' comp insurance is tied to payroll, job classification, and the risk profile of the services performed.

Higher coverage amounts mean higher premiums, so it's essential to find a balance between adequate coverage and cost. A business owners policy (BOP) is a solid start to any self-employed insurance policy, including three essential coverage types (general liability insurance, commercial property insurance, and business interruption insurance) and it's usually cheaper than buying each coverage type separately.

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To give you a better idea, here are some sample premium ranges for different types of insurance:

  • General Liability Insurance: Can start around $25–$50/month, depending on coverage limits and business size.
  • Garage Keepers & Garage Liability Insurance: The cost varies based on the value of vehicles typically in your care and the types of services provided.
  • Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Premiums are tied to payroll, job classification, and the risk profile of the services performed.
  • Business Owners Policy (BOP): Costs vary but may be bundle-discounted if you include multiple coverages under one plan.

It's also worth noting that a certified shop that bundles general liability with commercial property coverage can save up to 19%. Qualifying certifications are ASE, I-CAR (Gold class), and AAA-approved auto repair.

Mobile Cost

Mobile Cost can be a significant concern for mobile mechanics. On-site accidents can lead to costly damages or bodily injury, with potential medical expenses and lost wages for the mechanic and their clients.

Accidents on the job can also result in vehicle liability, with test-driving customers' cars putting you at risk of collisions or other incidents on the road. This can lead to costly repairs or even lawsuits.

Equipment security is another concern, with expensive tools and diagnostic equipment carried in your service vehicle prone to theft or damage. This can leave you with significant financial losses.

Financial protection is essential to mitigate these risks, covering the costs of damages, legal defense, and settlements. This can help minimize downtime and preserve cash flow, especially if you face a lawsuit or major property loss.

Here are some estimated costs associated with mobile mechanics:

Having a mobile mechanic insurance plan can provide a safety net against these costs, ensuring you have the financial protection you need to operate your business.

Who Needs It

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If you're a mechanic who works on your own or with a small team, you might be considered self-employed. The IRS defines self-employment as carrying a business or trade as an independent contractor or sole proprietor.

As a mechanic, you might be classified as self-employed if you work on a freelance basis or have your own repair shop. This could include part-time business, like fixing cars on the side or running a small garage.

Some common careers that might fall under the self-employed category include carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and roofers. These professionals often work on a project-by-project basis or have their own businesses.

Here are some examples of self-employed professions that might need self-employed insurance:

  • Carpenter
  • Electrical contractor
  • Plumber
  • Roofer
  • Handyperson

As a mechanic, it's essential to consider your financial situation and the level of risk involved in your work. If you're self-employed, you might need to cover expenses like equipment, materials, and liability insurance.

Teri Little

Writer

Teri Little is a seasoned writer with a passion for delivering insightful and engaging content to readers worldwide. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, Teri has established herself as a trusted voice in the realm of financial markets news. Her articles have been featured in various publications, offering readers a unique perspective on market trends, economic analysis, and industry insights.

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