There are different methods of transport and freight carriage in the trucking industry – each one with unique risks, costs, and rewards. One you’ve most likely heard of is bobtailing, which is when the driver operates an 18-wheeler or a semi-truck without the trailer attached. Bobtailing happens when you’re picking up goods or on the way back from dropping one-off.
No matter the reason, bobtailing is an activity that often demands supplemental insurance coverage. Bobtail policy protects both you and your finances in case of an accident, and it may be authorized by your motor carrier.
If you often bobtail in your 18-wheeler, here’s what you need to know about finding bobtail insurance coverage.
So What is Bobtail Insurance Anyway?
Bobtail coverage is a liability policy specifically intended for situations where a truck driver causes an accident while operating a vehicle without a trailer (or bobtail). If the unexpected happens after a truck owner-operator has dropped off the goods and is heading to another location or driving home without a trailer attached, bobtail insurance will cover legal expenses, medical fees, and settlements. This coverage handles property damage and third-party injury; however, it does not cover any damage that happens to the truck itself. In other words, bobtail coverage helps if you’re in an accident when:
- Driving to pick up a new load
- You’re in between dropping one load off and picking up the next
- Driving home after your last drop-off
While this policy doesn’t cover damage to your rig in these situations, it can go toward legal fees, medical bills, repairs and other expenses if someone else (or their car) is hurt in an accident.
Why You May Need Bobtail Insurance?
There are many reasons why you would benefit from this coverage. More often than not, if you’re operating under someone else’s trucking authority, you will need at least some level of bobtail coverage to your name.
Normally, you will want bobtail coverage if:
- You’re hauling or driving a semi-truck without a trailer regularly
- Your motor carrier requires it
- You drive an 8-wheeler with an empty trailer regularly
- You don’t have the financial means to cover damages, legal fees, and other costs if involved in an accident
If the only time you operate your truck with an empty trailer is during the personal trip, then bobtail coverage isn’t the right fit. According to Insuranks, the costs of bobtail insurance will depend on factors like personal driving records, the coverage limit you opt for, how often you bobtail, and more.
In order to obtain a bobtail coverage that fits you, you will first need to obtain a quote by accessing the insurer’s site and entering some basic information about your driving record, vehicle, and driving habits. You can also try to research and compare online, which means you can get quotes from several bobtail insurance agencies at once and choose the one that better fits your personal and trucking needs.