What’s going on, guys? Welcome back to Southeast Softwash! It’s Wednesday, and today we’re diving into a topic that many of us overlook: commercial insurance and safety protocols. We're out on the site of a pretty serious accident involving a dump truck, a trash truck, and a privately-owned vehicle—a stark reminder of why safety matters.
The Accident: A Wake-Up Call
We pulled up to a scene where a dump truck full of gravel tried to dodge a vehicle that pulled out in front of it, causing a chain reaction. A trash truck and another vehicle—Dusty’s dad’s truck—were also impacted. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but it got me thinking: what if this was your softwash truck involved in the accident?
Imagine turning around to see your branded, wrapped work vehicle in a ditch or worse—tangled up in a multi-vehicle accident. Are you prepared for that scenario?
Are You Covered? The Importance of Commercial Insurance
If you're out there running a softwash business, chances are you've handed over your truck keys to a technician at some point. But here’s the question:
These aren’t just minor details—they’re essential. Without proper insurance, an accident like this could be catastrophic for your business. Whether it’s your technician’s fault or not, you need to be covered from all angles.
Safety First: Policies & Procedures
Beyond insurance, you need to have a solid safety plan in place. That means:
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Daily Vehicle Checklists: Make sure your trucks are inspected every day before hitting the road.
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Regular Safety Training: Schedule routine safety programs for your team. Educate them on driving best practices, emergency protocols, and equipment handling.
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Driver Verification: Always verify that your technicians have current, valid driver’s licenses.
We’ve created a safety manual that covers all of this and more. It’s linked down below, and it’s a must-have for any softwash business owner who wants to stay ahead of potential risks.
Don’t Let It Bite You Later
Accidents happen, but you don’t want to be caught off guard when they do. Handing over the keys to an employee without proper vetting or insurance coverage is a ticking time bomb. Even if the accident isn’t their fault, your business could be on the hook for thousands in damages and legal fees.
So, take the time to implement safety protocols and ensure you’re covered with the right insurance. It might seem like a hassle now, but it’ll save you a world of headaches down the line.
Final Thoughts & Recommendations
I’m grateful no one was hurt in today’s accident, but it’s a powerful reminder of why we need to prioritize safety and insurance in our businesses. If you’re new to the softwash industry or looking to tighten up your operations, I highly recommend checking out the SESW Softwash 101 Class. It’s packed with essential information to help you build a safe, successful business from the ground up.
Stay safe out there, and remember: vehicles can be replaced—lives and businesses can’t. See you in the next post!
