Owners of transportation companies have to be knowledgeable about common claims that could impact their business. Every business comes with risks, however, the transportation industry faces unique challenges ranging from accidents and property damage to delays and unsatisfied customers. Recognizing and addressing these common claims is a meaningful step toward addressing a company’s finances, safety guidelines, compliance, and reputation.
Do You Know These Common Claims?
Cargo Damage
This is a common claim for transportation companies. Products or goods can be damaged during the transport process. The damage could happen during loading, unloading, or the handling of a product. A worker could accidentally drop a box and damage what’s inside. Or the product could have been improperly packaged or loaded which resulted in it being damaged.
Late Delivery
Late delivery claims are also pretty common. Customers expect to have their items delivered to them on time. Several factors can impact delivery times including traffic, weather, and distance. Other factors could include errors in paperwork, incorrect routing, or mislabeling a product.
Collisions
Accidents involving vehicles can be quite common within the transportation industry since they mostly involve being on the road and transporting people or goods from one location to another. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a major collision, these accidents can result in property damage, injuries, and potential liability claims.
Cargo Theft
Cargo theft has long been an issue within the transportation industry. Thieves can target valuable shipments. The loss of these goods can result in significant financial losses and insurance claims for the transportation companies.
Driver Injuries
Transportation employees, in particular, truck drivers face physical risks on the job. Injuries can occur during loading or unloading, vehicle maintenance, or due to accidents. Workers’ compensation claims may arise in cases like this.
Passenger Injuries
Passenger transportation companies like buses, shuttle vans, limousines, etc. are always concerned about passenger safety. There’s a risk for passenger injury in the form of slips, falls, collisions, or medical emergencies. This can lead to injury claims.
Liability Claims
Liability claims can come from various sources. This can include claims arising from accidents involving third parties, claims related to negligence, improper maintenance, or improper safety measures.
Tips for Avoiding These Common Claims
To avoid some of these common claims, you must begin implementing proactive safety measures and strategies. Here are some ideas to get you started on mitigating risks.
Driver Training
Allow your drivers to sign up for driver training programs that can teach them information about safe driving practices, defensive driving, and how to handle driving during adverse conditions. You can also begin holding safety meetings to keep these safety tips top of mind for drivers.
Vehicle Maintenance
Develop a regular maintenance schedule for all of the vehicles within your fleet. This will ensure that they are always in good working condition. Remember to keep detailed records of any maintenance and repairs. Require your drivers to perform pre and post-trip inspections, so you will be able to address problems promptly.
Cargo Handling
Train your employees on how to properly load and unload cargo. Make sure that they use secure packing and loading techniques so that they minimize any risk of damaging cargo during transit.
Security Measures
You should also use cargo tracking software such as GPS tracking and remote disabling systems to deter theft. You can also put secure measures in place at depots, terminals, and warehouses to further prevent theft.
Passenger Safety
Require that all passengers wear seatbelts. Ensure that airbags and emergency exits are well-maintained and in working order. Provide your staff with training to handle any emergencies that may involve passengers, including first aid training.
Regulation Compliance
Stay well informed about new standards and regulations put in place. Perform regular audits of your business operations so that you are always in compliance with local, state, and federal guidelines.
Tailored Solutions That Benefit You
RRL Insurance can work closely with you to ensure you have the appropriate insurance coverage for your transportation business. We’ll help you adapt to any changes within your business to address any risks you face. Ultimately, we will provide tailored solutions that safeguard your assets. We’ll also work with you to protect your employees, and keep your operations running smoothly. You can achieve this with our various insurance solutions including public auto insurance, construction insurance, truckers insurance, towing insurance, waste hauler insurance, and more.
Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of the transportation industry. We’re committed to helping you confidently navigate this industry with its complex regulations and requirements. Please contact us to begin learning more about how RRL Insurance can best protect your business. We look forward to working with you!