When you're in the transportation business, securing the right insurance coverage is crucial for protecting your operations both on and off the road. General liability insurance (GL) for trucking companies provides essential coverage for risks beyond the scope of operating your trucks. Here's what you need to know:
Coverage Provided by General Liability Insurance: General liability insurance safeguards your business against various risks, including:
Delivering your load to the wrong place
Client injuries resulting from slips and falls in your office
Incidents involving your drivers, such as altercations at truck stops
Legal actions, such as slander lawsuits from load brokers
Policy Limits for Truckers' General Liability Insurance:
GL policies typically start with a minimum limit of $300,000.
Common limits are $1,000,000 per occurrence with a $2,000,000 aggregate.
Higher limits can be obtained as needed, especially if you're hauling hazardous materials.
Consider adding a pollution endorsement for added protection against environmental liabilities.
Requirements for Truckers' General Liability Insurance:
General liability insurance is separate from primary liability insurance and requires the latter as a prerequisite.
Some truck insurance companies may have restrictions on coverage based on the commodities you haul, such as tobacco or hazardous materials.
Lowering Your General Liability Costs: While GL policies may not be cheap, there are ways to lower premiums:
Shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurers.
Clearly communicate your specific needs and risks to insurance agents.
Consider bundling policies or adjusting coverage limits to find cost-effective options.
When shopping for general liability insurance, it's crucial to work with agents who understand the unique challenges and requirements of the transportation industry. Our team can connect you with experienced brokers who specialize in trucking insurance, ensuring you get the coverage you need at competitive rates. Don't leave your business exposed to unnecessary risks – contact us today to explore your options and protect your operations both on and off the road.