(BPT) - Every year, there are more than 5 million crashes and 35,000 fatalities on U.S. roadways, according to the National Highway Safety Administration. Driving to and from jobsites is a routine necessity for contractors. However, this necessity can pose significant risks. Recent data from Acuity Insurance shows there is reason for contractors to take a closer look at their auto safety programs and insurance coverage.

Brittney Passini, director of commercial product development at Acuity Insurance, said, "Collision claims in 2023 were the second-most frequent claim for our contractor customers and cost slightly under $10,000 on average."

Passini further highlighted, "Car accidents aren't just common and inconvenient. They also can be financially devastating. In 2023, bodily injury claims averaged $95,000 per occurrence, making them the most expensive type of claim for our contractor customers."

Passini recommends contractors talk with an independent insurance agent to ensure they have commercial auto insurance as part of their insurance policy. She noted, "Your insurance company can help you recover from accidents by reducing your financial risk. They also should help you improve your safety with loss control and risk management services."

A.J. Gajdosik, Certified Safety Professional^® (CSP), has 30 years of experience helping contractors reduce risk. As a senior loss control representative at Acuity Insurance, Gajdosik works with contractors to improve their processes and operate more safely.

"Auto risk for contractors is different than other industries. Contractors go where the work is, often with tools, materials, and cargo in tow," Gajdosik said. "To help lower the risk of this extra time on the road, it is important to implement a comprehensive driver and vehicle safety program. This helps ensure drivers are safety conscious and well-trained to handle various situations on the road. It can also help verify that vehicles are safe and in good condition."

For contractors, Gajdosik recommends looking closely at the following areas because he says they present a higher risk compared to other industries.

• Cargo and Trailer Securement. Unsecured cargo and trailers can become dangerous projectiles in the event of a crash. An improperly secured load or trailer could result in injury, death, cargo damage, loss of load, vehicle damage, and citations, and it could even put a vehicle out of service, costing time and money. Contractors should train anyone driving for their business how to perform pre-trip inspections, safely secure loads and trailers, and determine the load capacity of a vehicle or trailer.
• Hired and Non-owned Auto Coverage. When an employee uses their vehicle for company business, it puts the company at risk for non-owned auto liability. Contractors should understand how their vehicles and drivers are covered. Contractors should set expectations for how and if their employees, temporary employees, and subcontractors use their vehicles for company business. It is important to train anyone driving for business purposes on standards, expectations, and what to do in the event of an accident.
• Lastly, contractors should check their drivers' motor vehicle records at least annually to determine if they are safe drivers. A record of speeding or other citations puts the company at risk for larger claims. Contractors are encouraged to ensure all drivers regularly participate in safety training focused on driving skills and safe vehicle operation.

Contractors should talk with an independent insurance agent to discuss options for insurance to protect their business.