Springfield is home to a remarkable number of churches and ministries, and many of them keep people moving: youth groups heading to camp, seniors going to lunch, and volunteers delivering holiday meals across Greene County. Every one of those trips raises an insurance question, and the answer depends on whose vehicle is involved.
Three Ways Your Congregation Gets on the Road
The Church-Owned Van or Bus
Vehicles owned by the church generally belong on a commercial auto policy, not a personal one. That policy typically includes liability, medical payments for passengers, and physical damage coverage for the vehicle itself. If your church still uses 15-passenger vans, know that federal safety agencies have warned about their rollover risk when heavily loaded, and some insurers ask specific questions about them.
A Volunteer’s Personal Vehicle
When a member drives their own car for a church event, their personal auto policy is usually the first to respond after a crash. The church can still be named in a lawsuit, which is where hired and non-owned auto coverage comes in. It’s designed to protect the organization when vehicles it doesn’t own are used for its activities.
Rented Vans for Trips
Renting vans for a mission trip or retreat adds another layer. Hired auto coverage may help with liability, but coverage for damage to the rented vehicle depends on your policy and the rental agreement. Review both before the trip.
A Simple Driver Policy Helps
- Set a minimum age for drivers
- Review motor vehicle records before approving volunteers
- Keep a written list of approved drivers
- Require seat belt use for every passenger
- Plan rest stops and driver rotation on long trips
Vehicles designed to carry 16 or more people, including the driver, generally require a commercial driver’s license, so check requirements before buying or renting a larger bus.
Spracklen Insurance Services in Springfield, MO works with religious and nonprofit organizations to review commercial insurance, including auto coverage for ministries. Policy wording varies, so a review before your next trip is worthwhile. Congregations across Springfield, MO and the Ozarks can reach out to Spracklen Insurance Services anytime.
