What is Bobtail Insurance, and Why Is It Important?
The trucking industry plays a vital role in keeping our economy running smoothly—whether it’s delivering groceries, gasoline, or cleaning supplies. For truck drivers and motor carriers, having the right insurance coverage is critical to protecting your business and personal assets.
One type of coverage that often gets overlooked is Bobtail Insurance . This policy is specifically designed to protect your tractor when you’re driving without a trailer attached, also known as “bobtailing” or “deadheading.”
But what exactly does Bobtail Insurance cover, and who needs it? Let’s break it down.
What is Bobtail Insurance ?
Bobtail Insurance is a liability-only insurance policy that provides coverage for your commercial truck when it’s driven without a trailer attached. This can happen in several scenarios:
- After dropping off a load and heading to pick up the next one.
- Driving your truck for personal use outside of work hours.
- Deadheading (driving empty) between jobs.
For example:
You’ve just dropped off a trailer at its destination and are en route to pick up your next load. If you cause an accident during this time, Bobtail Insurance will cover the costs of:
- Property damage to another vehicle.
- Medical expenses for injured parties.
- Legal fees if you’re sued.
- Settlement costs from a lawsuit.
However, Bobtail Insurance does not cover damage to your own truck or the cargo you’re hauling. Those would fall under your primary trucking insurance and cargo insurance , respectively.
Who Needs Bobtail Insurance ?
While not every trucker requires Bobtail Insurance , certain groups benefit significantly from having this coverage:
- Owner-Operators : If you lease your truck to a motor carrier, they may require you to carry Bobtail Insurance as part of your contract.
- Independent Owner-Operators : If you operate under your own authority, Bobtail Insurance may already be included in your primary liability policy, but it’s worth verifying.
- Truckers Who Lease Trailers : If you frequently switch trailers, there may be times when you’re driving without one.
- Drivers Using Their Truck for Personal Use : If you ever drive your truck outside of dispatch, Bobtail Insurance fills the gap in coverage.
If you find yourself driving your truck without a trailer—even occasionally—it’s wise to include Bobtail Insurance in your trucking insurance package .
What Does Bobtail Insurance Cover?
As mentioned earlier, Bobtail Insurance is a liability-only policy . Here’s what it typically covers:
- Property Damage : Repairs to another vehicle damaged in an accident caused by you.
- Medical Expenses : Costs associated with injuries to other parties.
- Legal Fees : Attorney fees and court costs if you’re sued.
- Settlements : Financial settlements resulting from lawsuits.
What Isn’t Covered by Bobtail Insurance ?
It’s important to note that Bobtail Insurance has limitations:
- Damage to Your Truck : This falls under your primary trucking insurance .
- Cargo Coverage : Protecting the load you’re hauling requires cargo insurance .
- Personal Injury to You : For coverage related to your own injuries, consider adding occupant coverage or workers’ compensation .
Is Bobtail Insurance Different From Non-Trucking Liability (NTL) ?
While Bobtail Insurance and Non-Trucking Liability (NTL) are often used interchangeably, they serve slightly different purposes:
Non-Trucking Liability (NTL)
- Covers accidents when you’re driving your truck off the clock (e.g., running personal errands like grocery shopping).
- Does not cover incidents that occur while you’re working or under dispatch.
Bobtail Insurance
- Covers you when you’re driving without a trailer, even if you’re still operating under someone else’s trucking authority or on the job.
In short, Bobtail Insurance offers broader coverage for work-related scenarios, while NTL focuses on personal use.
How Much Does Bobtail Insurance Cost?
Adding Bobtail Insurance to your policy is relatively affordable. It typically costs an additional $20–$60 per month , depending on factors such as:
- The type of cargo you haul.
- Your operating radius (local vs. long-haul).
- The type of vehicle you drive.
- Your driving history .
- The number of trucks in your fleet.
- Your business’s annual revenue .
Most insurance providers allow you to add Bobtail Insurance as an endorsement to your existing commercial truck insurance policy . Check with your motor carrier or insurance company to see if it’s already included or available as an add-on.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need Bobtail Insurance if I’m an owner-operator?
A: Yes, especially if you lease your truck to a motor carrier. Many carriers require Bobtail Insurance as part of your contract.
Q: Is Bobtail Insurance the same as Non-Trucking Liability (NTL) ?
A: No. While similar, Bobtail Insurance covers work-related driving without a trailer, whereas NTL focuses on personal use.
Q: Does Bobtail Insurance cover damage to my truck?
A: No. Damage to your truck falls under your primary trucking insurance .
Q: Can I add Bobtail Insurance to my existing policy?
A: Yes, most providers offer it as an endorsement for an additional monthly fee.
Q: How much does Bobtail Insurance cost?
A: Typically, it costs between $20–$60 per month , depending on various factors like your driving history and the type of cargo you haul.
Q: What happens if I don’t have Bobtail Insurance ?
A: Without it, you may be personally liable for damages or injuries caused while driving without a trailer, which could lead to significant financial losses.
Why Choose Cogo Insurance ?
At Cogo Insurance , we specialize in providing tailored insurance solutions for the trucking industry . Whether you’re an owner-operator , a motor carrier , or a fleet manager , we’ll help you navigate the complexities of Bobtail Insurance , Non-Trucking Liability , and other essential coverages.
Our team of experienced agents understands the unique risks faced by truckers and ensures you have the protection you need at competitive rates. Contact us today to learn more about how we can safeguard your business and keep you on the road worry-free.
