Why do buses and coaches with a seating capacity of over 40 pose a higher risk to motor fleet underwriters?

Buses and coaches with a seating capacity of over 40 are considered a higher risk to motor fleet underwriters primarily due to the increased injury risk and the higher value of the vehicles. When a larger vehicle is involved in an accident, the potential for severe injuries rises significantly, not only to the passengers but also to others on the road. The larger number of occupants increases the liability exposure for insurers, as more individuals can result in higher claims for personal injury.

Additionally, these larger buses and coaches tend to have a greater value compared to smaller vehicles. The financial implications of repairing or replacing such high-value vehicles following an accident contribute to the elevated risk profiles that underwriters must assess.

The other factors listed, like market demand, maintenance costs, and high fuel consumption, do play a role in the overall costs associated with running a bus or coach fleet but are not the primary reasons that elevate risk from an underwriting perspective. The focus remains on the significant implications of higher potential injury claims and the value at stake in these larger vehicles.