Texas is a massive state with loads of truckers operating there. If you happen to have a trucking business in Texas, you must make sure you have reliable insurance. There are plenty of unreliable insurance companies in the state that dodge their clients when things get tough. Make sure you take your time when choosing a quality truck insurance company.
In this article, we’ll discuss why truck insurance in Texas is important, as well as the various coverages you’ll need. Let’s get started.
The Importance of Texas Truck Insurance
The state of Texas experiences more trucking-related accidents than any other place in the country. Unfortunately, this has negatively impacted truck insurance rates throughout the state.
More than 20,000 people were involved in vehicle crashes in Texas in 2018. This resulted in more than 400 serious injuries and over 150 fatalities. Unfortunately, the stats are incredibly grim when trucks are involved. There were over 650 fatal truck crashes in 2018.
So, whether you’re signed onto a motor carrier or operate independently, getting truck insurance in Texas is vital.
Truck Insurance Coverage Options in Texas
Your route, cargo type, and so on will dictate the type of coverage you need. The following are some common coverage options available for truckers in Texas.
Physical Damage
This coverage is separated into two parts, collision and comprehensive. Collision will compensate for the damages to your truck, no matter who’s at fault. Comprehensive will cover any non-collision damages, such as theft, fire, or vandalism.
Auto Liability
Commercial auto liability covers any property damage or injuries other people sustain if you’re found at fault in an accident. This type of coverage may also cover your legal fees if the other party decides to sue you for damages.
Non-Trucking
If you operate your truck while you’re off duty then this coverage would come in handy. For instance, say you take your truck to pick up some groceries at the store and you get into an accident on the way home. It’s important to note since you’re off duty your physical damage and auto liability through your business won’t cover the damages. Therefore, non-trucking can protect you in these instances.
Cargo
Regardless of what you’re hauling around Texas, you need to protect your goods. Cargo thefts are very high in the state of Texas; therefore, you need to take the necessary precautions. This coverage can also protect you if your cargo is damaged as the result of an accident, fire, and so on.
Workers Compensation
Workers’ compensation is mandatory in most states but it does come in handy for trucking businesses. This type of insurance covers things such as the medical bills and lost wages for your injured employee. The last thing you want is a lawsuit on your hands because one of your drivers got injured on the job and you’re found liable.
Summing Up
The coverages mentioned above are the most common in the trucking industry. However, you don’t have to limit yourself to just these. There are numerous other coverage options available that could come in handy for your trucking business.
If you have any questions regarding truck insurance in Texas, reach out to one of our agents today.
