What coverage does a personal auto policy typically exclude when an insured is driving for business purposes?

A personal auto policy generally excludes liability coverage when the insured is using their vehicle for business purposes. This is an important distinction because personal auto policies are designed to cover personal use, such as commuting to work or running personal errands. However, driving for business can significantly increase the risk associated with using the vehicle, as it may involve different driving conditions, increased miles driven, or carrying additional passengers or cargo for business purposes.

As a result, insurers will typically not cover liability arising from business use unless the policy explicitly includes such coverage or the insured has a commercial auto policy that is designed to provide that protection. Understanding this limitation helps policyholders recognize the necessity of assessing their insurance needs carefully, especially if they regularly use their vehicle for work-related tasks.