When you’re leased on to a motor carrier, you run under the carrier’s authority, but you still own the truck and the risks that come with it. Transportation Risk Specialists helps leased owner-operators put together the coverage their lease requires and the protection they need for their own equipment and income, placed with A-rated carriers.
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What the motor carrier usually covers
While you’re under the carrier’s dispatch, its primary auto liability typically covers your operation. Many carriers also cover cargo while you’re hauling for them. What the carrier covers, and what it charges back to you, is written in your lease. Read it closely.
Coverage leased owner-operators commonly need
- Non-trucking liability or bobtail — Liability for when you’re off dispatch or driving without a trailer. Most leases require one or the other.
- Physical damage — The carrier’s policy usually doesn’t cover your truck. If it’s financed, your lender requires it.
- Motor truck cargo — Only if your lease makes you responsible for cargo, or for the carrier’s cargo deductible.
- Occupational accident — Benefits if you’re hurt on the job, since owner-operators often aren’t covered by the carrier’s workers’ compensation. Many leases require it.
- Trailer physical damage — If you own your trailer.
Leased-on vs. your own authority
| Leased on | Own authority | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary liability | Usually provided by the motor carrier while under dispatch | You carry it and your insurer files it with FMCSA |
| Liability you buy | Non-trucking liability or bobtail | Primary auto liability ($750,000 federal minimum for general freight, GVWR 10,001 lbs+) |
| Cargo | Usually the carrier’s, check the lease | You carry it; brokers require it |
| Physical damage | You insure your truck | You insure your truck |
Thinking about getting your own authority? See new authority trucking insurance and owner-operator insurance.
Bring your lease
To quote accurately, we’ll ask for:
- Your lease agreement (the insurance section matters most)
- Your truck and trailer year, make, VIN, value, and lienholder
- Your CDL details and driving history
- Any coverage the carrier offers you through its program, so you can compare
Leased owner-operator FAQ
Should I buy coverage through my motor carrier or on my own?
Either can work. Coverage bought on your own stays with you if you change carriers, and you can compare price and terms. Coverage through the carrier can be convenient. Bring us the carrier’s offer and we’ll compare it with your options.
Does occupational accident replace health insurance?
No. Occupational accident is designed for on-the-job injuries and has its own benefits and limits. It isn’t health insurance.
Leased on? Call 205-221-5466 or start your quote.
Coverage descriptions are general; actual coverage depends on the policy issued.