Restaurant managers frequently use their personal vehicles for business purposes - bank deposits, supply pickups, emergency runs to vendors. This incidental business use of personal vehicles creates significant liability exposure that many restaurant owners overlook. HNOA coverage closes this gap.
Common Manager Driving Exposures
- Daily bank deposits and cash drops
- Emergency ingredient runs
- Supply pickups from distributors
- Running between multiple locations
- Picking up staff or catering supplies
- Meeting with vendors or landlords
Why Personal Auto Isn't Enough
When a manager has an accident while on business:
- Personal auto may deny: Many personal policies exclude business use
- Limits may be inadequate: Personal policies often have lower limits than commercial
- Restaurant gets sued anyway: Vicarious liability attaches to employer
- Gap in coverage: Even if personal auto pays, it may not cover your liability
How HNOA Protects You
HNOA coverage provides:
- Excess coverage over the driver's personal auto
- Coverage when personal auto denies or is inadequate
- Defense for vicarious liability claims against your business
- Protection for all employees using personal vehicles for business
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my manager doesn't have personal auto insurance?
This is a serious problem. HNOA is designed as excess coverage over personal auto. If the driver has no personal coverage, HNOA may not respond (policies vary). Require all employees who drive for business to maintain personal auto insurance and provide proof. Consider this a condition of employment for management positions.