Common Trucking Insurance Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Trucking insurance helps protect your truck, your business, and the people around you. But many truck owners make simple mistakes when buying or using insurance.

This blog will show you the most common trucking insurance mistakes and how to avoid them. We’ll also answer some common questions and share a helpful trucking insurance checklist.

Mistake 1: Not Knowing How Claims Work

You may need to file an insurance claim if you get into an accident. This means you tell your insurance company what happened and ask for help.

How Claims Work in Trucking Insurance:

1. Call your insurance company right after the accident.
2. Share details about what happened (time, place, photos, and any other drivers involved).
3. The company will check the facts and decide if they will pay for damage or repairs.
4. If approved, they will send payment or help with repair costs.

Tip: Always be honest and keep records. A quick report can help your claim go faster.

Mistake 2: Buying Less Coverage to Save Money

It’s tempting to get the cheapest insurance. But cheap trucking insurance may not cover everything you need. If something big happens—like a major crash—you might end up paying thousands out of pocket.

How to Choose the Right Trucking Insurance:

Ask yourself:

• Do I drive in only one state or across many states?
• Do I carry heavy or dangerous items?
• Do I own one truck or many?

Then, follow this Trucking Insurance Checklist:

✅ Primary liability coverage

✅ Cargo insurance (for goods in your truck)

✅ Physical damage coverage (for your truck)

✅ Bobtail insurance (if driving without a trailer)

✅ General liability insurance

✅ Check if your state has special rules

Talk to a trusted insurance agent. They can help you find the best trucking insurance for your needs.

Mistake 3: Not Following Trucking Insurance Requirements

Every state or province has rules for trucking. If you don’t meet the trucking insurance requirements, you could be fined or lose your license.

Trucking Insurance Requirements:

• In the U.S., you must have at least $750,000 in liability insurance for most trucks.
• If you carry dangerous goods, you may need $1 million or more.
• Your insurance must match your USDOT or MC number if you drive across states.

Tip: Always check your state's Department of Transportation (DOT) website for updates.

Mistake 4: Not Updating Your Policy

Did you add a new truck? Hire a new driver? Change your routes?

If your insurance policy is old or has wrong info, you might not be covered during a claim.

Tip: Review your insurance every 6 months. Tell your agent if anything changes.

Mistake 5: Forgetting About Extra Coverage

Standard insurance may not cover all your needs. For example:

• Trailer interchange covers trailers you don’t own.
• Reefer breakdown helps if your fridge unit fails.
• Downtime coverage helps if your truck is being repaired and you lose income.

Tip: Ask your agent about extra coverages that fit your business.

Final Thoughts

Getting the right trucking insurance protects your truck, your cargo, and your wallet. Use this blog and our trucking insurance checklist to avoid mistakes.

Quick Recap:

• Know how claims work
• Choose enough coverage
• Meet all state rules
• Update your policy
• Think about extra coverage

Smart trucking starts with smart insurance!