I recently educated a 20-ish owner-operator on the benefits of understanding his commercial truck insurance policy and the role of independent public (insurance) adjusters that exist in every state (that I know of).
The young chemical hauler had recently experienced splash burns on a load job at a chemical company, was getting the runaround from his contract company, the chemical company, and uninterested attorneys. Then he divulged his situation to me as we conducted some business. Uh oh, I know what to, young man.
He needed to simply file a claim with his truck insurance company and if that goes south, go and get a public insurance adjuster that comes armed with industry experience and attorneys. Haven't heard from him since because he's busy with it, I'm sure. It's what drove me to write this blog post. So, others will also learn and know.
Here's the great part: if your insurer refuses the claim but shouldn't have, the adjuster (and attorney) will most likely get you a much higher settlement for their failure. It happens every day. Why not you as well?
What’s Covered by Owner Operator Insurance?
An owner operator should view commercial truck insurance as a bundle of coverages that keep h/her legal and protected on the road. Here’s what most independent drivers need:
- Primary Liability Insurance: Required by the FMCSA to operate under your own authority. Covers damage or injuries you cause to others.
- Physical Damage Coverage: Repairs or replaces your truck if it’s damaged in a wreck, fire, theft, or vandalism.
- Non-Trucking Liability (NTL): Covers you when you’re driving your truck for personal use, not under dispatch.
- Bobtail Insurance: Similar to NTL but specifically covers when you’re driving without a trailer attached.
- Cargo Insurance: Protects the load you’re hauling against damage or loss.
- Occupational Accident Insurance: Optional but smart, covers medical expenses and lost wages if you’re injured on the job.
State insurance adjusters can assist independent truck owner-operators in workplace injury insurance claims by providing guidance on the following:
* Understanding the Claim * Identifying Coverage Issues * Providing Legal Advice * Handling Communication * Assisting with Documentation * Assistance with the collection and organization of medical records, accident reports, and other relevant documentation to support the claim.
So, if you find yourself in this situation, just first contact your truck insurance carrier and confidently file your claim. You shouldn't have any problems, but if you do... Now you know what to do.