Most people only think about their trucking insurance once they need it. That's a mistake; you should understand your policy and what it covers before using it. Here's a guide to understanding the ins and outs of semi-truck insurance in Orlando, Florida.
The Basics of Commercial Trucking Insurance
Commercial trucking insurance protects companies and drivers from the financial risks of operating a large commercial vehicle. These risks include property damage, bodily injury, and cargo loss or damage.
Trucking companies are required by law to carry certain minimum levels of coverage if they operate under a motor carrier number. Still, they can (and often do) purchase additional coverage to protect themselves from even more significant risks. In addition, independent contractor truck drivers should also carry non-trucking liability insurance, which covers them if they cause an accident while operating their trucks while not under dispatch and not hauling freight.
What Does Semi-Truck Insurance Cover?
Semi Truck Insurance in Florida varies considerably in terms of the coverages it provides, but most include some combination of the following:
Property damage liability – This coverage pays for damages caused by the insured truck to another person's property, such as their vehicle or property. It does not cover damages to the insured truck itself.
Bodily injury liability – This coverage pays for medical expenses and other damages incurred by someone injured in an accident caused by the insured truck. It does not cover injuries to the driver or occupants of the insured truck.
Cargo insurance protects against loss or damage to cargo transported by the insured truck. It typically has a separate deductible from other types of coverage and may exclude certain types of cargo from coverage depending on the company. The most common types of cargo hauled are general freight, refrigerated freight, flatbed freight, and auto hauling.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist – This coverage pays for damages caused by an underinsured or uninsured driver who hits the insured truck. It does not cover damages caused by the insured truck itself.
How to Select The Best Insurance Company For Your Trucking Business?
There are a few processes that a trucker should go about to find the best insurance company for semi trucks. The first is to find a trucking specialist. Secondly, is to research and look around the different companies available. Make sure to get quotes from a few different insurance companies so you can compare and contrast the rates they offer.
Truckers have a tough job with long hours, physical stress, and navigation of unfamiliar roads. The risks associated with this occupation make trucking insurance a must-have. Fortunately, many insurance companies offer special coverage tailored to trucking needs. For example, in addition to protecting the driver, the Semi Truck Insurance in Florida also protects their load and any other vehicle involved in an accident.