Insurers use numerous criteria to help set trucking insurance premiums, including your operation’s claims history. Avoiding common trucking insurance claims may help you get the best trucking insurance rates.
Accidents Involving Commercial Trucks
Commercial truck drivers must undergo specific training to be licensed with the proper endorsement for the type of driving they will do. This training also helps them learn how to prevent and avoid accidents. Some common risks when driving commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) include bad weather, equipment malfunctions and roadway problems.
Accidents involving a semi truck and other vehicles on the roadways can cause extensive damage. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires trucking companies to carry minimum amounts of public liability insurance in addition to the state’s minimum commercial auto liability requirements to help cover third-party claims of injuries, death and property damage.
Here are a few tips to help avoid accident-related trucking insurance claims:
- Maintain your fleet. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) require that CDL drivers complete pre and post-trip inspections on their CMVs to determine if the vehicle is in good working condition. According to the FMCSA, problems with a truck’s braking systems caused 29% of trucking accidents triggered by equipment malfunctions.
- Conduct regular driver training. Making drivers aware of safety regulations, identifying and correcting bad driving habits and improving overall driving skills can help decrease the likelihood that your drivers will cause an accident.
- Use technology to help monitor driver behavior. Distracted driving, especially mobile device use, is a well-known cause of many severe accidents. Under the FMCSA’s regulations, drivers are prohibited from using electronic devices that are not hands-free. Although hands-free can be used, it is best practice to require your drivers to pull over before using such devices.
- Increase emphasis on safety culture. When drivers and other employees prioritize safety, they are more likely to take steps to prevent accidents.
Workers’ Compensation Claims
Workers’ compensation claims can be common for motor carriers. Semi truck drivers often work long hours, sit for lengthy periods, must unload cargo in some cases, work alone and experience great stress from traffic and lifestyle.
Trucking companies can invest in safety training to help their drivers avoid injuries.
How to Shop for Trucking Insurance
In the current insurance environment, monitoring your insurance premiums and changes to your coverage is crucial. Waiting until the last minute to review your trucking insurance renewal paperwork could result in overpaying for coverage.
Working with an experienced agent can help you keep your insurance premiums under control. Talk with your agent about how to best demonstrate to insurers that you have a safety program in place and conduct regular driver training sessions.
Contact Peachstate Insurance in Atlanta, Georgia, to learn more about how to get the right insurance coverage for your trucking operation at a great rate.
This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.