The trucking industry is extremely lucrative in the US economy, with an estimated worth of $791.7 billion. With nearly a million employed truck drivers in the country, trucking liability insurance has become increasingly important. While there are several types of liability policies, bobtail insurance remains lesser-known.
Bobtailing happens when you are not the owner-operator of a truck. It is a liability-only policy. To put it simply, this means that you will have coverage if you find yourself in an accident while driving a truck without a trailer and under another trucking liability.
However, it is important to note that this form of truck insurance will not encompass any physical damages to the vehicle. Instead, your bobtail liability insurance takes care of costs that stem from the liability: medical bills, legal fees, and also settlement charges.
Many people confuse bobtail insurance with nontrucking liability insurance, but the latter is mostly confined to driving the truck for personal use. Bobtail insurance is more specific to the aforementioned factors, without any regard for the truck being driven for personal or business use.
The cost of bobtail insurance is pegged between $20 to $50 monthly. The exact amount rests on factors that are considered during the underwriting process. Your insurance company of choice will determine the costs of your liability policy by assessing your driving history, claims history, business history, number of trucks, number of employees, and also the truck driving patterns without trailers attached.
There are certain considerations for those who are thinking about bobtail insurance coverage. You will definitely need it if you are looking for protection from huge expenses or potential lawsuits in the event of an accident.
It is also important to secure yourself with this coverage if you are driving a truck using another person’s trucking authority—without a trailer. You may also need it if the motor carrier makes it a requirement to have this specific type of coverage.
There are a number of liability insurance providers that can give you the bobtail insurance you need. Be sure to look at the terms of every provider and compare these thoroughly, so you are able to find a policy that works best for you. You should also check in with your motor carrier.
Strong Tie Insurance is a reputable provider offering commercial business insurance for any trucking company. They have a commercial truck insurance program specifically for this purpose, with the perks of being personalized and affordable. Strong Tie works with both smaller companies and bigger logistics businesses. They have sufficient coverage, free quotes, and consultations.
State Farm is known for the pricing of their bobtail coverage, and often gives discounts for their programs. Transactions with the company are smooth and it is usually quite simple to file claims with them. Their bobtail liability coverage includes discounts for vehicle safety, driver’s safety, and accident-free deals. You will also be able to get coverage for travel and rental purposes.
GEICO has been in the industry for over 70 years, and they are a great option for those who are on a budget. Their rates are lower for customers who open accounts via online platforms or over the phone, and you will get specialized coverage. With their GEICO Mobile app, you have access to roadside assistance and will be able to track drives. They have exceptional 24/7 customer service year-round.
Non-trucking liability is a type of insurance that covers you when your truck isn’t being used for business purposes. This can protect owner-operators from personal injury lawsuit claims and other liabilities, such as vehicle damages or property damage to third parties outside the company’s premises. Bobtail insurance only covers you if you do not have a load attached.
Physical damage is a general term for a group of insurance coverages that protect your vehicle. This includes Collision coverage as well as your choice between Comprehensive coverage or Fire and Theft with Combined Additional Coverage (CAC).
Truck drivers pay an average $640 for insuring specialty truckers, and $982 for transport truckers. Since these are just averages, always keep in mind that insurance companies rely on a range of factors to calculate your insurance rates and premiums.
Bobtailing means a semi-truck is operating without a trailer attached, which can be dangerous as semi-truck cabs are not designed to be operated without the weight of a trailer.
Some trucking companies offer truckers health insurance, but some employed and contractual drivers may find that these policies are either too expensive or not flexible enough. As such, truck drivers looking to invest in health insurance may explore other options such as individual or family plans.
When choosing a bobtail insurance provider, be sure to compare quotes and the extent of coverage of every company. For an industry so prone to accidents, making sure that you have the right insurance policy should be the main priority. Need more information on protecting your trucking company? Contact Assured Standard to learn more!
