Chances are that you’ve seen an 18 wheeler or a semi-truck driving around without a trailer. This is a common practice. Drivers are on their way to pick up a load and they don’t have anything they can transport to that location. Bobtailing is largely regarded as a dangerous situation because a semi-truck isn’t designed to operate without the weight of an attached trailer. Due to the difficulty that truck drivers experience when operating an 18 wheeler without a trailer, they purchase bobtail liability insurance. Some insurance companies offer better rates than others, so it’s recommended to shop with multiple agents. Bobtail insurance doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
Damage to big trucks can turn out to be expensive, which is why it’s important to be protected. In spite of the fact that all vehicles pose certain dangers, a semi-truck tends to get involved in a higher number of collisions, which can be explained by its weight and size. Drivers should exercise caution and avoid overworking themselves. An accident can leave its victims with serious, lifelong injuries, not to mention disabilities. As a result, companies that hire independent drivers require them to carry bobtail insurance, which picks up the slack in the case of an unfortunate accident.
Having bobtail insurance is important
Taking out insurance should always be a priority for any trucker. Coverage protects both the owner of the goods and the insured. As mentioned earlier, costs can vary, so it’s wise to shop around for your policy. Even if the motor vehicle isn’t operated, the big rig remains the most important part. Bobtail insurance comes in handy if you suffer an accident on your way to pick up a new load, in between dropping one load off and picking up the next, or you’re on your way home after having completed your tasks. Bobtail insurance and non-trucking liability insurance are commonly used interchangeably, but they’re distinct products.
Some of the details you’ll need to apply for bobtail insurance are the owner-operator’s contact information, the type of cargo load carried or transported, the distance that will be covered, your criminal record (if you have one, that is), your credit score, and, last but not least, your insurance claim history. Reach out to a professional insurance agent with great knowledge of the trucking industry and ask for a quote. This is an estimate of how much you’ll pay for the policy. Needless to say, the quote is calculated based on the information you provide. Therefore, don’t skimp on any detail, no matter how trivial it might seem.
Bobtail insurance costs less than general trucking liability insurance
Bobtail insurance isn’t overly expensive. The bobtail insurance cost is roughly $30 per month. Several factors are taken into consideration when establishing bobtail insurance prices. These are the factors that could possibly affect your rate:
- The types of goods you transport
- Your operational radius
- The kind of motor vehicle you use
- Your driving record
- How many trucks your company operates
- The average profit for the trucking company on an annual base
As you can see, there are numerous factors that can influence your bobtail insurance rate. If you reach out to an insurance company or agent, they will tell you that very few individuals qualify for the lowest rates. To qualify, you must be absolutely perfect.
The price of a bobtail insurance policy differs among carriers
Indeed, risk levels may vary, but this type of coverage is of the essence for complete protection. Regardless of whether you’re an owner-operator or an independent trucker, make sure to have protection in the form of insurance coverage. It’s not an option anymore; it’s a necessity. When looking for bobtail insurance, it’s a good idea to compare the different rates charged by insurers. Comparison shopping helps save money on insurance. By shopping around, you’ll no doubt discover that the insurance carrier you first considered as a first choice doesn’t have the best offer. Do your own research and compare bobtail insurance rates.
No two insurance companies will have the same end result. The coverage can be purchased in a package, which also includes physical damage insurance and non-trucking liability, or separately. At times, it’s necessary to piece out different types of coverage throughout different carriers. The process of comparison exposes you to various offers, so it’s easier to identify the one that addresses your needs. If you keep your options open, you’ll be able to switch plans, when mandatory, of course. In the case that you encounter a problem, you can immediately make the transition from one insurance company to the other.
Consider reviewing your bobtail insurance annually
Changing your bobtail insurance provider once a year is one of the smartest things you can do in terms of cost savings. Insurance carriers are in the habit of increasing rates with time. Why? Well, they understand just how hard shopping is for the regular trucker. This is why it’s not such a good idea to stick with an insurer for too long. Your loyalty won’t be rewarded, tempting as it may be to think that. Given that insurance isn’t like a cell phone plan, you have the liberty to do what you like. The best time to make the move is when you approach the end of the coverage period.
Anyone with a little bit of experience in the trucking industry will confirm that switching bobtail insurance carriers is a good way of keeping rates at a lower level. Don’t turn into a loyal client. On the contrary, go with an insurance carrier that provides unbeatable rates to attract more customers. It’s not advisable to cancel with your current insurer until you find a new one. Compare offers from several insurance companies or agents. You can do that fast and effectively online. Make sure the business has an excellent customer rating. Check out the positive or not-so-positive experiences of your peers and make up your mind. If the new policy is good, talk to your current insurer and settle the details.
