In the world of commercial trucking, few terms confuse new drivers and owner-operators more than bobtail insurance. It is one of those policies that you do not think you need until you absolutely do. But what exactly is bobtail insurance who needs it and when does it apply
Whether you are an independent truck driver or leasing onto a motor carrier understanding bobtail coverage could protect you from costly gaps that are not covered under your primary liability or cargo insurance.
This comprehensive guide answers all your questions about bobtail insurance explains how it differs from similar coverages and helps you decide if it is the right fit for your trucking operations.
Is Bobtail Insurance
Bobtail insurance is a type of non-trucking liability insurance that covers your truck when it is being operated without a trailer a condition known as bobtailing.
For example imagine you just dropped off a load and you are heading back to the terminal without a trailer if an accident occurs during that return trip your motor carrier liability insurance may not cover you. Thats where bobtail insurance steps in.
It provides liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage to third parties when you are driving your tractor unit semi truck without an attached trailer and not under dispatch.
Bobtailing vs Deadheading What the Difference
These two terms are often confused
Bobtailing Driving a tractor without a trailer.
Deadheading Driving with an empty trailer.
Bobtail insurance does not cover deadheading. That typically the responsibility of your motor carrier liability policy or covered under your own primary trucking insurance especially if you are under dispatch.
This distinction is crucial because many insurance claims are denied due to misunderstanding these two situations.
Does Bobtail Insurance Apply
Bobtail insurance comes into play when your truck is not hauling a load and you’re not under dispatch. Typical scenarios include
When you drop off a trailer, driving your truck home traveling without a trailer between workplaces or terminals Taking your tractor for personal use such as to a gas station or mechanic
If you are under dispatch even if youare not actively carrying cargo bobtail insurance likely wo cover you. In that case primary liability insurance is what applies.
Needs Bobtail Insurance
Not every truck driver needs bobtail insurance. It depends on how you are operating. Here a breakdown
Yoy Need Bobtail Insurance If
You are an owner-operator leased to a motor carrier.
Your motor carrier requires it as part of their lease agreement.
You frequently drive without a trailer while not under dispatch.
You want protection when off duty but still in your truck.
You May Not Need It If
You are a company driver fully covered by your employer.
You are always under dispatch with coverage by your carrier.
You own your own authority and already have comprehensive coverage.
Still even if you fall into a gray area bobtail insurance is often an inexpensive layer of protection especially considering the high liability risks involved in trucking accidents.
Bobtail Insurance vs Non Trucking Liability Whatthe Difference
Although the terms are often used interchangeably bobtail insurance and non-trucking liability (NTL) are not exactly the same.
Feature Bobtail Insurance Non rucking Liability
Covers driving without trailer
Applies when off dispatch
Covers personal non business use
Covers driving for business purposes
Commonly required by carriers
In summary
Bobtail insurance is focused more on operational trucking scenarios without a trailer.
NTL insurance is broader often covering personal use of the truck.
Sometimes insurance providers bundle both coverages Make sure you understand what you’re buying and what exclusions apply.
Is Bobtail Insurance Important
The trucking industry involves significant liability risks. Here why bobtail coverage can be a game changer
Protects You From Legal Liability
Truck accidents even without a trailer can cause major injuries or damage. If you are not covered you might face:
Medical expenses
Lawsuits
Property repair costs
Fills Gaps in Primary Coverage
Motor carriers typically only insure you when you are under dispatch. When you are bobtailing youare in a no man land unless you have bobtail insurance.
Satisfies Motor Carrier Requirements
Most lease agreements with carriers require leased drivers to carry bobtail insurance as part of the onboarding.
Peace of Mind
Knowing you are covered during those in between jobs or while driving home helps you focus on the road.
Bobtail Insurance Cover
Bobtail insurance usually provides liability coverage which includes
Bodily Injury Liability Medical expenses for injured third parties.
Property Damage Liability Repairs or replacement of other vehicles or property.
Legal Defense Costs: Attorney fees and court costs.
However bobtail insurance does not cover
Damage to your own truck
Cargo loss or damage
Personal injuries to the driver
Damage occurring under dispatch
If you want comprehensive protection including your own vehicle consider combining bobtail insurance with physical damage coverage.
Cost of Bobtail Insurance
Bobtail insurance is surprisingly affordable. On average it costs
$30 to $60 per month or
$360 to $720 annually
Your premium depends on
Your driving record
Truck type and value
Operating region
Experience level
Whether coverage is bundled with other policies
Bundling with a broader commercial truck insurance policy can significantly reduce overall costs.
How to Select the Best Bobtail Insurance
When selecting a policy keep these tips in mind
Check Lease Requirements
Start by reviewing your lease agreement. Many motor carriers specify minimum liability limitsoften $1 million or require coverage from certain insurers.
Compare Providers
Look for insurance companies with experience in trucking—such as:
Progressive Commercial
OOIDA
GEICO Commercial
Sentry Insurance
National Indemnity a Berkshire Hathaway company
Look for Bundled Discounts
Buying bobtail insurance alongside cargo physical damage and liability can save money and simplify claims.
Review Exclusions
Always read the fine print Know what constitutes under dispatch what personal use is allowed and what situations void coverage.
Common Misconceptions About Bobtail Insurance
1. My Carrier Insurance Covers Everything.
Wrong. Most motor carriers liability insurance only protects you while under dispatch—not during personal or in-between trips.
I Only Drive With a Trailer.
Even if rare that one day you bobtail home from a shop or a drop off could cost you thousands if something goes wrong.
It is Too Expensive.
Compared to the risk bobtail insurance is one of the most cost-effective coverages in trucking.
NTL Insurance Is the Same.
They overlap but aren’t identical. Always clarify what your policy includes.
Real Life Example A Costly Mistake
Joe an owner operator leased to a large freight company had just dropped off a load in Dallas. He unhooked his trailer and started the 20 mile drive home. Along the way he hydroplaned and hit another car injuring two people and totaling their vehicle.
His motor carrier insurance denied the claim—he was not under dispatch. Joe did not have bobtail coverage and ended up facing a $150000 lawsuit.
Do You Need Bobtail Insurance Key Questions to Ask
Do I lease onto a motor carrier
Am I ever driving my truck without a trailer
Does my carrier require bobtail or NTL insurance
Am I fully covered when not under dispatch
Do I want peace of mind and liability protection
If you answered yes to even a couple of these bobtail insurance is likely worth it.
Get Bobtail Insurance
Gather Information
Truck make model VIN
Driving history
Current insurance policies
Lease agreement terms
Get Multiple Quotes
Use online comparison tools or work with commercial truck insurance agents. Look for A rated carriers and read reviews.
Confirm Policy Details
Ensure it includes the required liability limits and check for:
Deductibles
Exclusions
Claims process
Conclusion
Until you realize how limited your primary liability coverage is bobtail insurance might not seem like an unnecessary expense. If you ever drive without a trailer and outside the scope of dispatch bobtail insurance could be your financial safety net.
Leasing to carriers is not only smart but frequently required for owner operators. For others it is a useful safeguard that helps to prevent one uninsured accident from ruining your livelihood. As with all insurance decisions the key is understanding your risk and closing coverage gaps before they cost you.