Different Coverage Options for Trucking Insurance

Illinois truckers face many of the same risks as other drivers on the road. However, the nature of trucking often enhances and augments these risks.

Truckers require special training to operate these extremely complex vehicles throughout Illinois' interstates and highways. Furthermore, trucking may involve carrying sensitive materials (check with IDOT for more regulations). Damaged shipments may result in liabilities on the part of the trucking company.

All of the risks a trucker faces therefore make it imperative to carry the correct trucking insurance. As every trucker has different needs, insurance will likely vary. However, truckers encounter many common policies regardless of their specialty.

Getting Coverage for Your Truck

Most trucks fall under the greater umbrella of commercial auto insurance. Commercial auto insurance covers trucks vehicles when drivers specifically use them for business purposes. However, each trucking insurance policy can vary, as truckers often need specialized coverage.

• Collision Coverage: If the truck has a wreck, this policy can help the driver afford to repair the vehicle. For example, a truck may accidentally collide with the guardrail on a highway. Collision coverage can help the trucker or trucking company afford to pay for the damage without relinquishing capital.
•  Comprehensive Damage Coverage: A truck could sustain damage from more hazards than just collisions. Vandalism, theft, fire or even weather could damage the truck. In the event of these damages, comprehensive coverage could help cover the repairs.
•   Liability Insurance: A trucker could be at-fault in an accident. This means that the trucker is the party responsible for the damage in the accident. They may have to pay for repair costs, medical bills or other expenses associated with harm to a third party. Liability insurance can help truckers meet these cost obligations. It might also help truckers afford legal costs in case of a lawsuit.
•  Non-trucking Liability Insurance: Truckers may use their trucks even when they aren’t officially at work. Regardless, truckers still need insurance protection. This coverage can extend to non-business uses of trucks.
•  Cargo Coverage: Trucking also often involves shipping. In case the shipment sustains damage or losses, cargo coverage might help. It can help the trucker or trucking company compensate the parties affected by the coverage losses.

Since trucking is often a career, truckers may benefit from other insurance beyond just auto coverage. For example, trucking companies may need general liability insurance in case accidents occur in their establishments. They might also have to offer their truckers and other employees health insurance and workers’ compensation. These policies can guard many other risks associated with the business.

With the right attention to detail, a trucker or their insurance company can get the right insurance policy for their needs.