SResources
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the frequent questions.
If you have a specific question please do not hesitate to contact me.
What types of coverage are included in trucking insurance?
- Primary Liability: Covers bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident caused by the truck driver.
- Physical Damage: Covers repairs or replacement of the truck in case of collision,
theft, or other damages. - Cargo Insurance: Protects the goods being transported against damage or loss.
- Non-Trucking Liability: Provides coverage when the truck is being used for non-
business purposes. - Bobtail Insurance: Covers the truck when it is being driven without a trailer.
- Motor Truck General Liability: Covers risks associated with business activities
apart from driving, such as at loading docks or truck stops.
What are the legal requirements for trucking insurance?
- $750,000 for general liability.
- $1,000,000 for oil transport.
- $5,000,000 for hazardous materials.
How is the cost of trucking insurance determined?
- Driving Record: Drivers with clean records typically receive lower premiums.
- Experience: More experienced drivers often pay less for insurance.
- Type of Cargo: High-risk cargo like hazardous materials can increase insurance costs.
- Location: Areas with higher accident rates or theft rates can affect premiums.
- Truck Value: More expensive trucks result in higher physical damage coverage costs.
- Coverage Limits: Higher limits on liability and cargo coverage increase premiums.
How can I lower my trucking insurance premiums?
- Maintain a Clean Driving Record: Avoid accidents and traffic violations.
- Invest in Safety: Implement safety programs and install safety devices in trucks.
- Increase Deductibles: Opt for higher deductibles to lower premiums.
- Bundle Policies: Combine multiple insurance policies with the same provider for discounts.
- Regularly Review Policies: Ensure coverage aligns with current needs and remove unnecessary options.
- Improve your safety score.
What is the SAFER System?
The SAFER system is a database maintained by the FMCSA that contains detailed safety and compliance information for motor carriers. This system isaccessible to both the public and industry stakeholders, offering valuable insights into a carrier’s safety record. The information housed in the SAFER system is derived from various sources, including roadside inspections, crash reports, and compliance reviews.
What are Loss Runs?
Loss runs are detailed reports that provide a comprehensive record of all claims filed under an insurance policy. These reports typically include information such
as the date of each claim, the type of claim, the amount paid out, and the status of the claim (open or closed). They serve as an official documentation of a
policyholder’s claim history.
Can I get trucking insurance if I have a poor driving record?
Yes, it is possible to obtain trucking insurance with a poor driving record, but it may come with higher premiums. Some insurance providers specialize in high-
risk drivers and may offer tailored policies to meet your needs. Improving your driving record over time can also help reduce premiums.
Are there any additional coverages I should consider?
- Trailer Interchange: Covers damage to trailers belonging to others while in your possession.
- Refrigeration Breakdown: Protects against losses due to refrigeration unit failure.
- Pollution Liability: Covers environmental cleanup costs if your cargo spills and causes pollution.
- Workers’ Compensation: Provides coverage for employees injured on the job.
What is Bobtail Insurance?
Bobtail insurance is a specific type of liability insurance designed to protect truck drivers when they are operating their trucks without a trailer attached, also known
as "bobtailing." This coverage is vital for owner-operators and fleet drivers who often find themselves driving their vehicles in an unloaded state, either returning from a delivery or heading to pick up their next load. Bobtail insurance fills this gap by providing coverage for accidents that happen while the truck is in transit without a trailer.
What is Trailer Interchange Coverage?
Trailer interchange coverage provides protection for physical damage to a non- owned trailer while it is under the care, custody, or control of a trucker. This coverage comes into play when a trailer is assigned to a different truck under a trailer interchange agreement, which allows the legal transfer of responsibility for
the trailer to the new operator.
How can a motor carrier submit proof of insurance (insurance certificate) to FMCSA?
Carriers and other regulated entities should NOT submit insurance certificates directly to FMCSA. They should request that their insurance company submit
the insurance filings online. Additionally, BMC-91 or BMC-91X forms which are required as proof of liability insurance. The BMC-34 form should be submitted if
cargo insurance is necessary. Finally, the BMC-84 form is required to provide proof of a surety bond. Make sure all forms are properly filled out and signed
before submission.
How can I change the required level of insurance my company has on file with the FMCSA?
If the amount of insurance on file with FMCSA needs to be raised or lowered, please create a ticket with FMCSA. Include the following information (preferably
on company letterhead):
– USDOT#
– MC#
– Name of company
– Request to raise or lower the insurance, and the desired amount
– Signature of the requestor
Once that change has been requested, FMCSA insurance specialists will process it in our systems, provided that it reflects the amount of insurance you are required to have on file based on your type of operation.