While some states require that PEVOs carry insurance, there are other even more compelling reasons for PEVOs to be covered. Damage to bridges or harm caused to other motorists can easily result in claims in the hundreds of thousands, and even millions, of dollars. Without proper insurance, a PEVO-involved incident puts the operator and their company at the risk of financial ruin.
Picking the right policies
Many PEVOs who have realized the importance of insurance have had the unfortunate experience of being sold insurance that is not adequate to cover their activities. The problem is that many insurance carriers simply do not understand what a PEVO is, and the nature of the work performed.
Policies available from big national insurance companies may not cover you to the degree you expect. Some policies only cover damage to your vehicle. Imagine a bridge strike that causes $200,000 in damage: your policy might replace your high pole and any damage to your bumper, but leave you exposed to the six-figure damages to the bridge.
To ensure adequate coverage, PEOVs should carry three types of insurance:
- Commercial automotive insurance, to protect against damages to your vehicle
- General liability insurance
- Professional errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, a professional liability insurance which protects against injury or property damage above and beyond the coverage your general liability insurance policy provides
It is important that you contact an agent who specializes in these types of policies. There are only a few in the United States, but with a reputable agency that focuses on pilot cars, you are more likely to have coverage to protect you if the unthinkable occurs. Make sure the agent knows what you do as a PEVO, and that you understand the exact coverage and limitations of each policy.
Below are known PEVO insurance providers that you might want to consider when shopping for insurance. Evergreen Safety Council does not endorse any particular insurance agency or insurance product. This information is provided to assist you with your research. If you are aware of other providers of PEVO insurance that you believe should be represented here, please let us know.
Certification training discounts
Some insurance providers will even offer a discount for successful completion of PEVO certification training. Evergreen Safety Council’s Pilot/Escort Vehicle Operator training is widely regarded as one of the best training programs available in the United States.
