Understanding the Different Types of Trucking Insurance Coverage

Trucking operations involve a wide range of responsibilities, and with those come various risks. Appropriate insurance coverage is critical to running a commercial trucking business.

Primary Liability and Beyond

Primary liability coverage is often the first type of insurance required for commercial truckers. It addresses the legal responsibility for bodily injury or property damage to others in an accident where the truck driver is at fault. Federal and state regulations mandate this coverage for most commercial trucking operations, and it is typically a prerequisite for obtaining operating authority.

However, primary liability does not address damage to the truck or cargo. That’s where other types of coverage come into play. Physical damage coverage, for example, may help cover the truck and trailer. It typically includes both collision and comprehensive components, which are designed to cover damage from accidents and other incidents such as theft or weather-related events.

Motor truck cargo insurance can help cover the freight, but it can vary significantly depending on the type of cargo. Some commodities may require specialized policies due to their value or sensitivity. Shippers or freight brokers often require this coverage before a load is assigned.

Specialized Coverages for Unique Risks

In addition to the more common types of trucking insurance, several specialized coverages address specific risks within the industry. Non-trucking liability, sometimes called bobtail insurance, applies when a truck is operated without a trailer or outside of business use. This can be relevant for leased owner-operators who use their trucks for personal reasons when not under dispatch.

There is also trailer interchange coverage, which applies when truckers haul a trailer they do not own under a trailer interchange agreement. This type of coverage is particularly relevant in intermodal transport or when working with other carriers.

Workers’ compensation may be required if a trucking company employs drivers. This coverage relates to injuries sustained by employees while performing job-related duties.

Learn More

Contact Apple Insurance Agency to find out about your trucking insurance options and get a quote.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.