Like traditional auto coverage, trucking insurance covers drivers throughout Texas, Florida, Illinois, California, Georgia and 25 other states in case they face accident risks on the road. Commercial truckers have to follow strict guidelines to operate. However, this does not exempt them from increasing their risks when problems occur.
As a result of the risks truckers face, trucking insurance providers routinely categorize certain truckers as high-risk operators.
Determining a Trucker’s Risk Level
Certain circumstances may place a trucker in a category of high-risk drivers. Insurers frequently have to cover high-risk truckers using non-standard rates. So, what classifies a trucker as a high-risk driver?
High-risk truckers are those who, by their operations, pose significant risks of filing a trucking insurance claim. Different insurance companies use various formulas to assign risk levels to truckers. However, most insurance companies use several common statistics to determine these risks. These may include:
- The Trucker’s CSA Score: A CSA Score helps the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) better monitor the safety of commercial truckers. The FCMSA uses data like accident and violation history to determine the CSA score. If a trucker has a low CSA score, this may indicate that a driver is safer. Therefore, insurance companies may use these scores to determine risks.
- Driving Record: Like automobile drivers, truckers also have a driving record. A history of accidents, tickets or other violations may mean a higher level of risks.
- Driver Experience: New truckers often don’t have the experience of seasoned drivers. Therefore, new operators often have a higher risk level. However, this risk may improve the more experience a driver gets.
- Insurance History: States require almost every driver, including truckers, to carry auto insurance. If a trucker has a history of lapsed or inadequate coverage, this may increase their risk levels.
- Cargo: Truckers who haul sensitive, expensive or dangerous equipment might cause more costly damage in the event of an accident or loss. If a trucker carries sensitive cargo, they might increase their on-road risks. They may need higher levels of coverage to protect their risks.
If your insurer labels you a high risk trucker, it may mean you have to pay more for your coverage. However, though you may pay more, you will have effective coverage in case you have to file a claim. Don’t be dishonest about the risks you may face in an attempt to lower your costs. Instead, work with your insurer to search for affordable policy options.
We’ve got you covered. Call Integrity Network Insurance Group, LLC at 512-989-6006 or 844-524-4744 for a fast, free trucking insurance quote.