The major mistake that garage owners make when deciding on insurance is when they base their decision solely on price.

We get it! Premium costs are a major factor, but knowing what you are getting for that premium can literally make or break you and your business in the event of a loss.

Different garagekeepers policies cover different things.

Legal Liability – this is typically the least expensive garage package available. It comes in to play if a customer’s vehicle is damaged but the customer must prove that you are legally liable in order to recover damages from your insurance. This is not typically a good choice as it doesn’t end well for your relationship with your customer.

Direct Excess – this is much better than legal liability because there aren’t any stipulations that require your customer to prove your negligence. This coverage is only applicable AFTER the client files a claim with their own personal auto insurance carrier. If their policy doesn’t cover all of the damages, then the garagekeepers policy would apply.

Direct Primary – This is by far the best coverage available to you, mostly because in the event that a customer’s vehicle is damaged while in your possession, it removes the burden of proof from your customer. Thereby helping to retain a strong customer relationship. Basically, you, as the garage owner, are taking responsibility for any claims and you are not putting any additional burdens on your customer’s to file a claim with their own insurance company. Direct primary is definitely a win-win situation.

Of the three coverages described, direct primary is the best coverage for you to obtain.