Skip to content
Phil Klein Insurance Group Blog

Insurance Blog

Get a Quote Instantly

Do I Need Commercial Vehicle Insurance If I Put A Company Sign on My Truck?

Insuring your work vehicles adequately is a sound business practice that considerably reduces risk. Unfortunately, some business owners erroneously believe that their own or their employees’ auto insurance provides coverage for work-related accidents. This misperception can expose them to significant risk. Therefore, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand when you need commercial vehicle coverage, such as when vehicles display company signage. If you own a business and want to understand your commercial insurance options better, our Phil Klein Insurance Group team is available to guide you. We are based in West Bloomfield, MI.

Distinguishing Between Business and Personal Vehicle Use

Michigan companies that use vehicles for business need to ensure they have the right insurance coverage. In addition to work trucks, a company’s vehicle must carry commercial vehicle insurance. Additionally, vehicles may also need coverage beyond a standard personal policy if any of the following apply:

  • Transporting work-related goods
  • Visiting a client or a job site
  • Carrying work tools or equipment
  • Transporting employees or clients
  • Displaying business signage, either temporarily or permanently

If you or an employee carries out any of these actions and causes an accident, liability may fall on both the driver and your business. We often recommend acquiring Hired and Non-Owned Auto Insurance (HNOA) to safeguard your business in such situations. This kind of policy covers personal, leased, and rented vehicles used for business purposes. It’s also essential to remember that many individual auto policies specifically exclude coverage for vehicles displaying business signage. In such cases, a commercial vehicle policy becomes a necessity.

Collaborating with the Phil Klein Insurance Group

The Phil Klein Insurance Group caters to the personal and business insurance needs of business owners in the West Bloomfield, MI, area. Call us today at (248) 682-7445 to design an insurance plan that best protects your business and personal assets.

Would it be smart for a business owner to get commercial insurance for their company?

Becoming a business owner continues to be a dream for many in the West Bloomfield, MI, area. When you are going to start a small organization in this region, you need to ensure you are diligent. One of the best ways you can do this is by getting the right coverage. There are many reasons why this coverage is a smart option for business owners here.

Protect Investment and Assets

A great reason to always have a commercial insurance plan for your business in Michigan is to ensure you are able to protect all business assets and your investment in the company. If you choose to start a business here, you will make a range of investments to get it off the ground. Commercial insurance will protect your business assets if you incur a loss. 

Manage Liability Risks

The right commercial insurance plan can help you properly manage your liability risks. Many risks come with running a company; mitigating them is always important. When you get a full commercial insurance policy, it will include a provision for liability risk coverage. This will help ensure you have support if your business is found liable for an accident. 

When starting a business in the West Bloomfield, MI, area, you need to have the right insurance. As there are a lot of commercial insurance options to consider, it would be a good idea to call our team with the Phil Klein Insurance Group. Our Phil Klein Insurance Group professionals know the value of such coverage and can offer the guidance you need to build a quality plan that will cover your business. 

Protect Every Aspect of Your Business With Commercial Insurance

Why Comprehensive Commercial Insurance is Necessary for Your Business

Every business, regardless of its nature, has liability. Whether you’re offering a service, selling a product, or lending your expertise, you are accountable for its safety and effectiveness. With the range of potential risks that your business could encounter, various coverage types might be necessary to protect it. At Phil Klein Insurance Group in West Bloomfield, MI, we can help you determine which commercial insurance policies you need.

Types of Commercial Liability Coverage

If your business involves selling physical products, product liability insurance is vital. It covers any adverse effects that your product may have on a consumer. For professionals providing services centered on their expertise, coverage against potential errors is key. Lastly, if you own a physical store, property liability insurance would protect you in case of any accidents on your premises.

Other Forms of Important Coverage

Tech-integrated businesses or those heavily reliant on computers might require cyber insurance. This coverage can cushion the impact of expenses from a data breach. For businesses with employees, worker’s compensation insurance is required. Accidents at work or work-related illnesses are covered under this. Moreover, business-owned vehicles need to be shielded under commercial auto insurance as personal policies seldom cover business-related accidents.

Protecting Your Business With Comprehensive Commercial Insurance

Commercial success often comes with a myriad of potential risks. The best strategy is to ensure your business before these risks cause significant damage. Reach out to us at Phil Klein Insurance Group in West Bloomfield, MI to get your commercial insurance today. We can help you get started with a commercial insurance quote and answer your questions.

How Do Health and Disability Insurance Differ?

We often hear about and see commercials concerning health and disability insurance, yet many Americans are not familiar with their differences. People often receive both coverages through your work, but this article will help you better understand the two forms of insurance. If you are considering either policy, contact the Phil Klein Insurance Group team serving West Bloomfield, MI, and we will happily assist you.

Distinguishing Health and Disability Insurance

Although health and disability insurance relate to your health, the two are distinct. Health insurance pays the costs associated with maintaining your health, whether those costs result from injury, disease, or other causes. Health insurance pays the care providers, not the policyholder, other than to reimburse fees paid in advance.

Disability insurance provides you with a direct cash payment to replace some or all of your income when a health problem prevents you from working as you had in the past. Depending on how long the health issue affects your ability to work, the disability payments can be short or long-term. Likewise, total disabilities prevent you from working, while partial disabilities allow you to work, but you are unable to perform all the duties you had in the past.

When acquiring a disability policy, you should review the disability policy in detail so you understand what is covered and excluded and how the level of disability is determined. 

Disability insurance often costs 1 to 3% of your income, depending on your situation and occupation.

Working with Phil Klein Insurance Group

If you live in or near West Bloomfield, MI, and want to protect yourself and your family against the effects of a disabling injury, contact the Phil Klein Insurance Group team. We’ll work with you to structure a plan to suit your needs.

Regulatory Changes and Compliance in Commercial Insurance

The commercial insurance sector operates within a dynamic regulatory environment, subject to constant changes and updates in the West Bloomfield, MI area. Staying on top of regulatory developments is imperative for insurers and businesses alike, ensuring compliance and mitigating risks associated with non-compliance.

Adapting to Industry Changes

Regulatory bodies continually refine standards to address emerging risks and challenges. Insurers must stay agile in adapting their practices to align with these evolving standards. Whether it involves changes in reporting requirements, risk assessment protocols, or consumer protection measures, compliance is important to keeping trust and credibility in the commercial insurance industry.

Navigating Cross-Border Operations

As businesses expand globally, compliance with regulations across different jurisdictions becomes complex. Commercial insurers operating internationally must navigate diverse regulatory frameworks, each with its own rules and expectations. A comprehensive understanding is crucial for seamless cross-border operations.

Addressing New Challenges

The rise of insurtech introduces innovative ways of conducting business, but it also raises concerns related to data privacy. Adhering to evolving data protection regulations is paramount, requiring insurers to implement robust cybersecurity measures and ensure the responsible use of data.

Prioritizing Ethical Conduct

Insurers must proactively adopt policies and procedures that prioritize ethical conduct, transparency, and appropriate treatment of customers. This not only aligns with regulatory expectations but also enhances the credibility of commercial insurance providers.

Balancing Act for Businesses

Meeting regulatory requirements comes with its own set of challenges and costs. Compliance efforts demand significant resources, both in terms of time and finances. Striking a balance between fulfilling regulatory obligations and maintaining operational efficiency is a perpetual challenge for commercial insurers.

How Phil Klein Insurance Group Can Help You

At Phil Klein Insurance Group, we can help answer questions concerning commercial insurance. We serve the West Bloomfield, MI, area. Contact us today.   

What Is A Business Owner’s Policy (BOP)?

 If you own a company, you need good insurance coverage to keep your business and personal assets safe. You may have heard of a Business Owner’s Policy or BOP. Here’s what’s included and how to get BOP insurance in West Bloomfield, MI. 

Two Types Of Insurance, Combined 

A Business Owner’s Policy combines two different types of insurance that most, if not all, business owners need – property and liability insurance. Instead of purchasing each kind of coverage and managing them separately, you’ll have one policy that covers the various types of claims you or someone else can make. 

What’s Included 

  • Property insurance. This covers damage against your owned or rented business property, like fire, theft, and vandalism. 
  • General liability insurance. This protects you from claims made against your business from people who may have been injured on your property, disgruntled employees, etc. It also covers defamation and libel. 
  • Business income insurance. This is also called business interruption insurance and helps cover income loss while your property is damaged and unusable. 

What Else Can I Add? 

You can also add other types of business insurance to your BOP policy, like: 

  • Workers’ compensation insurance. Workers’ comp is generally required if you have employees and covers the cost of lost wages and medical care for employees who are hurt on the job. 
  • Professional liability insurance. This covers lawsuits filed by anyone who claims your professional services or advice caused them to incur a loss. 
  • Data breach insurance. This covers financial losses associated with hacking and data breaches, including IT service, new hardware and software, and compliance fines. 
  • Auto insurance. If your business utilizes one or more company vehicles, you’ll need a comprehensive auto insurance policy to cover accidents. 

Need good business insurance coverage in West Bloomfield, MI? Phil Klein Insurance Group serves your area. Call today at (248) 682-7445 

Benefits of a Commercial Excess Liability Policy

The future is unpredictable. That’s why safeguarding your company against unforeseen disasters and potential financial devastation is paramount. A standard insurance policy can provide essential coverage, but it may not always be sufficient to protect your business from large, unexpected losses. This is where a commercial excess liability policy becomes invaluable. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of commercial excess liability insurance and why it’s a crucial addition to your risk management strategy. 

What Is Excess Liability Insurance? 

Commercial excess liability insurance is a specialized coverage designed to protect your business from substantial and unexpected events that could lead to catastrophic financial consequences. Unlike standard insurance policies, which have predefined limits, excess liability insurance provides an extra layer of protection when your primary insurance coverage is exhausted. This extra coverage can provide a generous financial cushion beyond your insurance’s coverage, ensuring that your business remains financially secure even in the face of the most expensive claims. 

Who Is Excess Liability Coverage Right For? 

Commercial excess liability coverage is not limited to specific industries; it’s a versatile solution that can benefit a wide range of businesses. Some of the industries that can particularly benefit from this coverage include: 

  • Manufacturers: Protecting against product liability claims and other manufacturing-related risks. 
  • Real Estate: Shielding against unexpected property-related liabilities. 
  • Retail Businesses: Covering various liabilities for clothing, department, and grocery stores. 
  • Financial Institutions: Safeguarding against financial and professional liability. 
  • Media Companies: Excluding media liability, this coverage can protect printers, publishers, and broadcasters. 
  • Hotels and Motels: Ensuring financial stability in the hospitality industry. 
  • Construction Contractors: Protecting against construction-related liabilities. 
  • Wholesalers/Distributors: Covering various distribution-related risks. 

Excess Liability Insurance vs. Commercial Umbrella Insurance: 

It’s important to understand the distinction between excess liability insurance and commercial umbrella insurance: 

  • Umbrella Insurance: This type of insurance enhances the coverage limits of your primary policies and fills gaps in those policies. This could include coverage for work-related injuries, property damage, certain lawsuits, and personal liability situations. 
  • Excess Liability Insurance: It provides an additional layer of protection for losses that exceed the limits of your primary and umbrella policies but doesn’t extend coverage beyond those underlying policies. In other words, if your insurance policy covers the relevant event, but the amount required to resolve the issue is too high for your original policy, excess liability insurance can cover the difference. 

To maximize your risk management strategy, it’s often advisable to have both commercial umbrella and excess liability coverage in place. The combination of these coverages ensures that your business is comprehensively protected against various liabilities and potential financial hardships. 

Protect your business today 

A commercial excess liability policy offered by Phil Klein Insurance Group can provide the peace of mind you need to prepare your business for anything. Our commitment to comprehensive commercial insurance and our dedication to building lasting client relationships make us the partner you can trust in safeguarding your business.  

With the capacity to cover substantial losses and the flexibility to adapt to your industry-specific risks, this coverage is a valuable addition to your risk management portfolio. Don’t leave your business vulnerable to catastrophic financial consequences –  speak with a PKIG agent today to discover how you can protect your business and ensure its long-term success. 

What is Workers’ Compensation And How Does It Benefit Workers and Employers?

Workers’ compensation insurance is a crucial component of any business’s risk management strategy. Signed into law nearly a century ago, “the grand bargain” is a cooperative arrangement between employers and employees that benefits everyone involved and aligns incentives of both parties. In this blog, we will explore why maintaining workers’ compensation insurance is essential for business owners and how it benefits both workers and employers. 

 

Reason 1: Worker’s compensation aligns incentives 

The workers’ compensation system has been referred to as the “grand bargain” between employers and workers because of how effectively it puts workers and employers on the same team in the event of an on-the-job incident. In this arrangement, employees that are injured while performing their job receive medical benefits and paid time off regardless of the fault of the injury. In return, employers are protected from lawsuits related to the injuries. 

 

Reason 2: Legal Requirement 

Importantly, workers’ compensation insurance is typically required by law in most states.  

It’s important for business owners to understand the specific requirements that apply to their operations; you can determine your state’s requirements by visiting this resource. While the laws may vary by state, businesses with more than one employee are generally mandated to provide workers’ compensation benefits. 

Don’t risk legal and financial penalties – get an instant quote for comprehensive worker’s compensation insurance through PKIG today! We’ll help you find a plan that meets your state’s requirements while staying within your budget. Speak with a PKIG agent to learn more about your options. 

 

Reason 3: Employee Protection 

Like all insurance, worker’s compensation is an investment in recovering from unexpected setbacks. 

Accidents and injuries can happen even in the safest of workplaces. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 2.6 millions non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported in 2021. Workers’ compensation coverage acts as a safety net for injured employees, providing them with necessary medical and wage replacement benefits. By having this coverage in place, you demonstrate your commitment to the well-being of your workforce. Employees are given the resources they need to recover quickly, which allows them to get back to work faster. 

 

Reason 4: Business Protection 

Workers’ compensation insurance is not just about taking care of injured workers; it also safeguards your business. Without adequate coverage, a single major workers’ compensation claim could lead to substantial financial strain due to medical expenses, lost wages, and potential lawsuits. By investing in workers’ compensation, you protect your business from the potentially devastating costs associated with workplace injuries or illnesses. 

Fortunately, an experienced workers’ compensation insurer like Phil Klein Insurance Group can provide valuable loss control services for a price you can afford. We work directly alongside you to develop a plan that suits the type of risks associated with performing work in your company’s field. You can get started with an instant quote here. 

 

Conclusion 

Maintaining workers’ compensation insurance is not just a legal requirement; it is a strategic investment in the well-being of your employees and the long-term success of your business. By protecting your employees and your business from the financial and legal ramifications of workplace injuries, you can ensure a safer and more productive work environment. If you’re ready to choose a workers’ compensation plan that suits your company’s budget and coverage requirements, look no further than Phil Klein Insurance Group. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping business owners make informed decisions and secure the right protection. Contact us today to ensure your business is properly covered and compliant with workers’ compensation laws. 

What is Commercial Excess Liability Insurance?

Protecting your business with the right insurance coverage is crucial, and commercial excess liability insurance can play a vital role in ensuring comprehensive protection. While a commercial general liability policy provides a solid foundation, it may have limitations when it comes to handling high-cost claims – this is where commercial excess liability insurance comes in. Let’s discuss what commercial excess liability insurance is and determine how it could help protect your business. 

 

What is Commercial Excess Liability Insurance? 

Commercial excess liability insurance, otherwise known as excess liability coverage or commercial excess liability insurance, is a type of insurance that extends the limits of an existing commercial general liability insurance policy. This means that the terms of the original plan don’t change, but rather this insurance provides a higher dollar limit to safeguard your business in case a claim exceeds the amount of your existing policy.  

The most significant advantage of a commercial excess liability policy is the increased coverage limits it offers. By adding an excess liability policy to your existing insurance, you significantly enhance your protection against high-cost claims, which could provide a financial cushion for your business. For instance, if you have a general liability policy with a $1 million limit and add an excess liability policy with a $2 million limit, your total coverage limit would be $3 million. 

This kind of additional coverage can be essential to ensuring your business can weather a potentially disastrous payout that may otherwise overwhelm your business’s available funds. Maintaining commercial excess insurance is an investment in the long-term health of your business by establishing a financial safety net for a worst-case scenario. 

 

What does excess liability insurance cover? 

As mentioned above, commercial excess liability insurance acts as an extension of an existing commercial liability plan, so the terms of coverage remain the same as the original plan’s terms. That being said, this type of insurance is most often utilized for the following types of policies: 

  • General liability insurance – This type of insurance covers bodily and personal injury, property damage, and any associated legal costs that might result from these claims. 
  • Commercial auto insurance – This insurance covers any injuries that might occur from driving a vehicle for company purposes. 
  • Employer’s liability insurance – This insurance covers employer injury or illnesses that aren’t a part of workers’ compensation. 

 

Does my business need excess liability coverage? 

While all businesses should have some form of commercial insurance for worst-case scenarios, whether your business needs excess liability insurance depends on these questions: 

  1. Does your business participate in high-risk activities, like construction? 
  1. Are you confident your liquid assets will be sufficient to cover your company in case of large payouts? 

As with all forms of insurance, excess liability coverage is an investment in protecting your business from the unknown. If there’s a possibility that your existing commercial liability insurance will be insufficient to cover your business, then you should consider purchasing excess liability insurance. 

 

Conclusion 

Investing in the long-term health of your business is money well spent for a business that intends on thriving well into the future, and PKIG is ready to help you find the best possible price on your excess liability coverage. With our extensive network of providers, you can compare a variety of plans to find the best coverage for your business without being stuck with any single company’s pricing and coverage options. 

Contact PKIG today to partner with a reliable insurance provider that understands the unique challenges your business may face. With PKIG, you can rest assured knowing that your insurance coverage remains optimal and that your business is well-protected against potential risks and claims. 

 

Do Most People Need Life Insurance? – What You Need To Know

Life is full of uncertainties, and while we hope for the best, it is essential to prepare for the unexpected. One of the most crucial steps towards securing your family’s financial well-being is acquiring a comprehensive life insurance plan. Regardless of age, life insurance provides valuable protections and offers peace of mind. Let’s explore the importance of life insurance and why obtaining coverage early in life can result in significant long-term benefits.  

Provides peace of mind 

Life insurance offers peace of mind, knowing that your family’s financial future is secure. It relieves your family of the burden of anxiety associated with potential financial struggles after your passing. With a comprehensive life insurance plan, you can enjoy the present without worrying about the uncertainties of the future. 

By securing a life insurance policy, you guarantee that your family will have a safety net to cover essential expenses such as mortgage payments, outstanding debts, education costs, and daily living expenses. This critical lifeline ensures your loved ones can maintain their standard of living and achieve their long-term goals even without your income. You can speak with a PKIG agent for more information on how a life insurance plan in the West Bloomfield area can protect you and potentially accrue cash value over time. 

Provides financial security 

Obtaining life insurance at a younger age has the potential to reduce the cost of the overall plan. Premiums are generally lower when you are young and healthy, so by shopping for a plan early, you can lock in a lower premium, ensuring long-term affordability. Additionally, obtaining coverage at a younger age eliminates the risk of developing health conditions that may increase premiums for similar coverage in the future. 

At Phil Klein Insurance Group, we offer a range of customizable life insurance plans to suit any budget. Whether you’re looking for term life insurance, whole life insurance, or universal life insurance, our knowledgeable agents can help you find a plan that meets your specific needs. Our flexible premiums can be adjusted to align with your evolving preferences and financial circumstances, ensuring that your life insurance plan remains suitable throughout the various stages of your life. 

Protects your family 

Life insurance is a crucial investment that provides invaluable protection and peace of mind for individuals of all ages. By securing a comprehensive life insurance plan, you can safeguard your loved ones’ financial stability, ensuring they can continue their lives without financial strain after your passing. Additionally, purchasing a plan early in life allows you to take advantage of lower premiums while still receiving the coverage that suits your family and financial situations.  

PKIG is committed to helping you navigate the complexities of life insurance, providing tailored solutions that ensure a secure future for you and your loved ones. Take the first step towards financial security today by speaking with an agent for more information

Connect With Us

for all your insurance needs!

248-682-7445

Our Partners

  • AAA
  • Accident Fund
  • Aegis Insurance
  • American Modern
  • AmTrust
  • ASI
  • Berkshire Hathaway GUARD
  • Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies
  • Chubb
  • Citizens Insurance
  • Conifer Insurance Company
  • Coterie
  • Encompass
  • Ethos Life
  • Foremost
  • Great Lakes Mutual
  • Hagerty
  • hiscox
  • JC Taylor
  • Liberty Mutual
  • Lincoln Financial
  • North American
  • Penn Mutual
  • Philadelphia Insurance Companies
  • Pie Insurance
  • Principal
  • Progressive
  • PURE Insurance
  • Safeco
  • State Auto
  • The Hartford
  • Travelers
  • Univeral Property & Casualty
  • Westfield

Servicing these States

  • Michigan

Latest News