Learning the Basics: Truckers Insurance

It is a confusing process selecting commercial truck insurance for your big rig. When making the last coverage decision there are several questions that need asked.

What coverage protects me if I injure someone else or someone else's property? What coverage can protect me if I get injured? What coverage will give repairs to my truck if I get in an accident? What coverage will protect my cargo?

Truckers Insurance: Why it's important

Commercial truck insurance is a necessity for all truckers. Coverage decisions will should be enough to protect you from any possible catastrophes. Even if it is not your fault your livelihood could be taken away in a split second. With the proper insurance you will have piece of mind knowing that you are not just one mishap away from being out of work and possible bankrupt. Here are the most common forms of commercial truck insurance offered:

Primary Liability Insurance - covers the damages or injuries to someone else during an accident where you are at fault.

Non-Trucking Liability Insurance - covers damages or injuries to others while the truck is not dispatched on a job. Most truckers will need this coverage because there will be times that the truck is driven for personal reasons.

Bobtail Insurance Coverage - covers property damage or injuries that you cause while the trailer is not attached to your truck even if you are on a job. For example, you may drop off your load and while in transit to your next load you have an accident. Bobtail insurance coverage would cover you in this case.

Bobtail and Non-Trucking are similar but different

Non-trucking liability insurance and bobtail coverage are often confused with each other because of their similarities. Primary liability coverage is mandatory for all truckers. These other types of liability coverage can offer protection for situations that fall between the cracks. An accident in your truck could happen at anytime when it is in use. Knowing how you use your truck will help decide which coverage you will need.

Physical Damage Coverage - covers damage to your truck if you are in an accident and includes theft as well.

Motor Truck Cargo Insurance - coverage protects you if your load was damaged during transit.

Medical Payments Insurance - covers medical bills if you, a family member or an employee was injured while driving or riding in the truck.

Uninsured Motorist Insurance - provides protection if you are in an accident with someone who does not have any insurance or does not have enough insurance.

Even on the basic commercial truck insurance policy there are many choices for you to make. Don't make the mistake of choosing insurance based solely on the price like many truckers do. Price is an important factor, but the right amount of truckers insurance can be a decision that can make or break your truck business.