Question 1

What is a commercial truck insurance policy?

Accepted Answer

A commercial truck insurance policy is a specialized insurance plan that protects businesses and owner-operators who use trucks for commercial purposes. It covers liability, physical damage, cargo, and more depending on your chosen coverages.

Question 2

What does commercial truck insurance cover?

Accepted Answer

It can cover primary liability, physical damage to your truck, motor truck cargo, non-trucking liability (bobtail), general liability, trailer interchange, and more. The exact coverage depends on the policy you choose.

Question 3

Can I get a short-term insurance policy?

Accepted Answer

Yes! NITIC offers short-term and temporary truck insurance for operators who need coverage for a limited period. Contact us for details on available short-term options.

Question 4

What type of damages are covered in commercial truck insurance?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your policy, covered damages may include collisions, theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters (comprehensive), cargo damage or loss, and third-party bodily injury and property damage.

Question 5

Why is some trucking insurance costly?

Accepted Answer

Trucking insurance premiums are influenced by factors like driving history, cargo type, operating radius, truck value, and coverage limits. High-risk cargo or poor driving records can increase costs.

Question 6

Who requires commercial auto insurance?

Accepted Answer

Federal law (FMCSA) requires motor carriers to carry minimum liability insurance. State requirements vary. Owner-operators, fleets, and freight brokers all typically need some form of commercial truck insurance.

Question 7

How soon can you get trucking insurance coverage?

Accepted Answer

NITIC can often provide same-day coverage and issue your Certificate of Insurance (COI) immediately after your policy is finalized.

Question 8

Does truck insurance cover trailers?

Accepted Answer

Physical damage coverage can be extended to cover your trailer. Trailer interchange coverage is available for trailers you operate under an interchange agreement.

Question 9

Is truck insurance expensive?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary widely based on coverage type, truck value, driving history, and other factors. NITIC offers competitive rates and can often save you up to 20% over your current insurer.

Question 10

What types of trucks can be covered under a trucking insurance policy?

Accepted Answer

NITIC insures semi-trucks, box trucks, dump trucks, tow trucks, hotshot trucks, pickup trucks, flatbeds, auto haulers, refrigerated trucks, and more.

Question 11

What is not covered in commercial truck insurance?

Accepted Answer

Standard policies typically exclude intentional damage, normal wear and tear, nuclear liability, war, and personal belongings inside the cab (unless rider is added).

Question 12

Are employees covered under my truck insurance policy?

Accepted Answer

Employees who drive listed vehicles may be covered under your liability policy. For workers compensation or occupational accident coverage, additional policies are needed.

Question 13

What will happen if I forget to renew my commercial truck insurance?

Accepted Answer

A lapse in coverage can result in fines, license suspension, and loss of operating authority. NITIC sends renewal reminders to help you stay covered at all times.

Question 14

Are there any additional coverages I can purchase?

Accepted Answer

Yes — you can add coverages like refrigeration breakdown, rental reimbursement, downtime coverage, and more. Ask your NITIC agent about all available endorsements.

Question 15

Are my tools covered by my insurance policy?

Accepted Answer

Standard truck insurance does not cover tools or equipment inside the truck. A separate inland marine or equipment floater policy may be needed to cover tools.

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