Kevin A. Smith — Licensed Insurance Agent
Licensed Agent
Author & Agent

KEVIN A. SMITH

Licensed Insurance Agent — Ellie Insurance Group

Kevin A. Smith is a licensed insurance agent at Ellie Insurance Group, the parent company behind DealerLiability.com. He specializes in commercial insurance for the automotive industry — helping auto dealers, repair shops, towing companies, and garages across Florida and six additional states find the right coverage at the right price.

Kevin works with hundreds of top-rated carriers to shop the market on behalf of his clients. His focus is on making sure automotive business owners understand exactly what they're covered for — and what they're not — before a claim happens.

Licensed Insurance Agent
State of Florida & 6 additional states
Garage Liability Specialist
Dealers, repair shops & towing
Based in Tampa, FL
Serving FL, TX, GA, NC, SC, NM & UT

Areas of Expertise

Garage Liability Insurance
Garagekeepers Legal Liability
Dealers Open Lot Coverage
Dealer Surety Bonds
Tow Truck Insurance
Commercial Auto & Property
General Liability
Workers' Compensation

Articles by Kevin A. Smith

Choosing the Right Liability Limits for Your Garage or Dealership
Coverage Guidance
April 7, 2026·7 min read

Choosing the Right Liability Limits for Your Garage or Dealership

One of the most common mistakes automotive business owners make is choosing the minimum required coverage limits — then discovering those limits aren't enough when a major claim hits. Here's how to choose limits that actually protect your business.

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The Most Common Insurance Claims for Auto Dealers — and How to Prevent Them
Claims & Risk
December 11, 2024·6 min read

The Most Common Insurance Claims for Auto Dealers — and How to Prevent Them

From test drive accidents to hail damage on the lot, auto dealerships face a distinctive set of risks that standard commercial insurance simply doesn't address. Understanding the most common claims helps you build a smarter coverage program.

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Garage Liability vs. General Liability: What's the Difference?
Coverage Guidance
October 22, 2025·7 min read

Garage Liability vs. General Liability: What's the Difference?

Many automotive business owners assume their general liability policy covers everything. It doesn't. Here's a clear breakdown of what garage liability covers that general liability leaves out — and why the difference matters.

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Garagekeepers Insurance Explained: Do You Really Need It?
Coverage Guidance
December 10, 2025·8 min read

Garagekeepers Insurance Explained: Do You Really Need It?

If you own an auto dealershipy of customer vehicles — for repair, storage, detailing, or parking — garagekeepers insurance is not optional. Here's what it covers, how it works, and why the difference between direct and legal liability matters.

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Dealers Open Lot Coverage: Protecting Your Vehicle Inventory
Coverage Guidance
August 14, 2025·6 min read

Dealers Open Lot Coverage: Protecting Your Vehicle Inventory

Your vehicle inventory is your most valuable asset. Dealers open lot coverage protects it against the perils that can wipe out months of profit in a single event — from hailstorms to theft to fire.

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Florida Tow Truck Insurance Requirements: What Every Operator Must Know
State Requirements
June 3, 2025·8 min read

Florida Tow Truck Insurance Requirements: What Every Operator Must Know

Florida has specific statutory insurance requirements for tow truck operators that go beyond standard commercial auto minimums. Operating without the right coverage can result in license suspension and significant personal liability.

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How Much Does a Dealer Surety Bond Cost? (2026 Guide)
Dealer Bonds
April 1, 2025·7 min read

How Much Does a Dealer Surety Bond Cost? (2026 Guide)

Dealer surety bondsequired to get your motor vehicle dealer license — but how much does it actually cost? Here's a complete breakdown of bond amounts by state, premium rates, and how to get the best price.

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Dealer License Requirements: Florida & Texas (2026)
Dealer Licensing
February 5, 2025·9 min read

Dealer License Requirements: Florida & Texas (2026)

Getting a motor vehicle dealer license in Florida or Texas requires more than just filling out an application. Here's exactly what insurance, bonds, and documentation you need to get licensed and stay compliant.

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Floorplan Financing for Auto Dealers: What Insurance Your Lender Requires
Dealer Insurance
April 9, 2026·7 min read

Floorplan Financing for Auto Dealers: What Insurance Your Lender Requires

Before NextGear Capital, AFC, Dealertrack, or Ally will approve your floorplan line, they require specific insurance coverages — and they must be listed as loss payee. Here's exactly what you need.

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WORK DIRECTLY WITH KEVIN

Have a question about your coverage or want a second opinion on your current policy? Kevin is available by phone or through the quote portal.