A major blind spot for tree care insurance is when a tree care worker is driving a company vehicle and gets into an accident that results in an injury, that incident falls under workers’ compensation.
gaps, or they may charge significantly higher rates. Also, be diligent in your recordkeeping. Insurance carriers may audit your busi- ness, and having organized records of payroll, job classifications, and work activity will ensure transparency and accuracy during the process.
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ing-related injuries in that context, but they should. It is essential to hire safe, responsible drivers.” To help reduce incidents and control insurance costs, invest in: • Proper personal protective equip- ment (PPE) such as helmets, chaps, hearing protection, eye protection, etc. • Safety training for all employees • Equipment upgrades to minimize physical strain and exposure • GPS tracking in vehicles to promote safe driving habits “You have to invest in training, equip- ment, and good employees,” Rook add- ed. “If you reduce claims year after year, your workers’ compensation ex- perience mod will go down — and that means lower premiums.” MAINTAIN CONTINUOUS COVERAGE AND ACCURATE RECORDS Lapses in insurance coverage are a red flag to underwriters. Even if your business is seasonal, avoid any gaps in your policies. Insurers often decline applicants with a history of coverage
• Weekly payroll and job site logs • Equipment usage and maintenance • Safety training sessions and certifi- cations • Employee MVRs (Motor Vehicle Re- cords) and driving history
THE BOTTOM LINE: EARN YOUR INSURER’S TRUST
Securing the right insurance as a new tree care business is about more than checking boxes — it is about presenting your company as a responsible, expe- rienced, and safety-minded operation. “They have to sell their company to an insurance underwriter,” said Rook. “That underwriter needs to look at them and say, ‘Okay, yeah — I’d like to insure this company.’” Insurance is not just protection — it is a reflection of how seriously you take your business and your people. With the right agent, the right coverage, and a proactive approach to safety and professionalism, you can build a strong foundation for your business to thrive.
Safety training for all employees is one way to help reduce incidents and control insurance costs.
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