When I started writing insurance for auto repair shops, I wasn’t very surprised as the terms for auto repair people changed from auto mechanics to auto and/or vehicle technicians.
It’s understandable that repair people have moved from the old to the new label and it’s not simply semantics, it’s a paramount shift in the type of work, skill sets, and decision making that goes into the entire process of repairing cars and trucks.
While computers and diagnostic tools make the system of engine and other key auto drive trains much more consistent it also raises the bar for those required to use and exploit the auto diagnostic tools available. Quite simply, While auto repair has never been for everyone, now, not everyone can do it, even if they want to, and it separates many that once could make car repairs to the select few who can keep up with technology.
The same can be said about auto repair shop insurance, what insurance agents call “Garage Keepers” insurance coverage. Garage keepers insurance has to keep up with your business and the new technology that goes into cars and trucks these days.
With so many choices in insurance polices and carriers offering liability and property coverage it’s imperative to work with an insurance agent that is focused on protecting your business and assets as much as you’re focused on protecting your client’s investment in their cars and trucks through quality repair services.
In other words, you’re not likely going to find the type of guidance and advice from an insurance agent that primarily sells home and auto insurance, and just happens to write an auto repair shop insurance policy once in a blue moon. Otherwise, you can expect to train your agent and explain what you need in insurance, even if you don’t know what you require for insurance coverage. It’s much better to have your agent explain to you what coverages are available and how the protection offered applies to your unique situation.