Trucking Tips

Renew Your Commercial Vehicle Insurance With These Steps

One of the most essential parts of operating a trucking business is ensuring you have the right commercial vehicle insurance coverage.

Insurance renewal is not just a routine administrative task. It protects your business, keeps your trucks legally on the road, and ensures you meet lender and Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements.

For truck owners and small fleets, the renewal process is also a chance to control costs, reassess risks, and make sure your coverage matches how your operation actually runs today.

Insurance costs across the trucking industry have increased over the past few years due to higher repair costs and tighter underwriting in the insurance market. Because of this, it is important to approach your commercial insurance renewal strategically instead of waiting until the last minute.

Here’s how to renew commercial vehicle insurance the right way.

Step 1: Start Your Business Insurance Renewal Process Early

Many truck owners wait until the last minute to begin the insurance renewal process. That approach can limit your options and sometimes lead to rushed underwriting decisions.

Starting your commercial insurance renewal 30–60 days before the renewal date gives you time to review your current policy and compare quotes from multiple providers in the insurance market.

Beginning early also helps prevent coverage lapses. If your policy expires before the new one is finalized, your trucks may temporarily operate without insurance coverage. That can lead to serious compliance issues and even registration problems.

Starting early allows you to:

Compare insurance rates without rushing
Complete a proper risk assessment of your fleet
Address underwriting questions from the insurance company
Ensure coverage stays active without interruptions

For trucking businesses that rely on their vehicles every day, avoiding even a short coverage gap is crucial.

Step 2: Review Your Current Insurance Policies Carefully

Before you renew commercial vehicle insurance, take the time to go through your current commercial auto insurance policy. Understand the coverage it provides, the premiums you’re paying, and any deductibles.

When reviewing your commercial auto policy, focus on the specific protections that matter for trucking operations.

Look closely at your:

Liability coverage limits
Cargo insurance
Physical damage protection
Non-trucking liability coverage
Rental reimbursement or downtime coverage

Your current policy may have worked well when you first purchased it, but your business operations may have changed since then.

Ask yourself: Does this coverage match how your trucks are actually operating today?

If your operations have expanded, your risks may have changed. Reviewing your policy line by line helps you determine whether your drivers and equipment are still properly covered.

Step 3: Understand Why Your Premium May Have Changed

Many trucking companies notice higher premiums during their commercial insurance renewal. Several factors across the industry are driving those increases.

Repair costs have risen significantly as trucks become more technologically advanced. Replacement parts, specialized sensors, telematics, and labor all contribute to higher insurance costs after an accident.

Another major factor is claims inflation. Courts have issued increasingly large verdicts in trucking liability cases, sometimes referred to as “nuclear verdicts.” These large settlements raise insurance rates across the entire industry.

Underwriters also examine safety records when calculating a premium. Issues like frequent claims, poor inspection history, or driver safety violations may lead to higher rates.

Your insurance advisor or insurer may review:

Driver records and violations
Safety scores and inspection data
Vehicle maintenance history
Operating regions and mileage

Understanding these influences helps you prepare for possible changes when your commercial insurance policy comes up for renewal.

Step 4: Reassess Your Business and Fleet Risk Profile

Your trucking business rarely stays the same from year to year. Even small operational changes can impact your insurance coverage.

During your renewal process, take a close look at how your operation has evolved.

Examples of operational changes include:

Adding new vehicles to your fleet
Hiring additional drivers or replacing employees
Operating in new states or regions
Hauling heavier cargo or different freight types
Increasing mileage or delivery routes

Each of these changes affects the level of risk an insurance company evaluates when renewing coverage.

Your policy should reflect your actual business purposes today, not how your company operated several years ago. A proper reassessment ensures your assets, equipment, and trucks remain protected.

Step 5: Shop Around but Compare More Than Price

While you can renew with your current insurer, it’s also an excellent opportunity to shop around for better rates and coverage options.

However, choosing the right insurance should never be based solely on the lowest quote. A cheaper insurance policy may include higher deductibles, narrower coverage limits, or exclusions that leave important risks uncovered.

When comparing policies from multiple providers, review:

Deductible amounts
Coverage exclusions
Claims response reputation
Financial strength of the insurance provider
Experience in insuring trucking fleets
Any open lawsuits

Independent rating agencies such as AM Best evaluate the financial stability of insurers. A strong rating indicates the company can reliably pay claims if a major event occurs.

Comparing these details helps ensure you select the right coverage, not just the lowest premium.

Step 6: Confirm Lender and DOT Requirements

If your trucks are financed, your lender likely requires proof of active insurance coverage. Many commercial truck loans require:

Minimum liability limits
Loss payee designation for the lender
Proof of active coverage for the financed truck

If your policy lapses, your lender may take action to protect its collateral. In some cases, they may place forced insurance on the vehicle, which often costs significantly more.

DOT regulations also require commercial carriers to maintain appropriate liability coverage. Failure to maintain proper insurance can result in penalties or operating authority issues.

Before finalizing your commercial insurance renewal, confirm your policy satisfies both lender and regulatory requirements.

Step 7: Look for Safety and Fleet Discounts

Many trucking companies qualify for premium savings through safety programs and operational improvements. Your insurance company may offer discounts based on:

Telematics or electronic monitoring programs
Clean inspection history
Multi-vehicle fleets
Bundled insurance policies
Long-term customer relationships

Demonstrating a strong safety culture can significantly reduce long-term insurance costs. Maintaining detailed maintenance records, improving driver training, and reducing claims history can all contribute to lower premiums during future renewals.

Step 8: Review the Renewal Coverage Offer Line by Line

When you get the renewal offer, carefully review the details. Check for any changes in coverage, premiums, deductibles, and insurance policy terms. Even small adjustments can have a large financial impact over time.

Pay close attention to:

New exclusions added to the policy
Reduced coverage limits
Increased deductibles
Higher premium payment amounts

If anything appears unclear, ask your broker or insurance advisor to explain the change in writing. Clear documentation helps prevent confusion if you ever need to file a claim.

Step 9: Avoid Gaps in Coverage

Allowing a commercial policy to lapse can create serious problems for trucking companies. Without active insurance, your vehicles may be unable to operate legally. A lapse may also affect your ability to renew registration or maintain operating authority.

Other consequences include:

Higher future insurance rates
Difficulty obtaining new coverage
Lender penalties on financed vehicles

Maintaining continuous coverage ensures your vehicles, cargo, and drivers remain protected.

Step 10: Pay on Time and Keep Documentation Accessible

After renewing your policy, keep a copy of your new insurance policy and proof of coverage in your commercial vehicles.

Today, many fleets maintain both physical and digital copies of insurance documents. Drivers should have quick access to proof of coverage during roadside inspections or accident reporting.

You should also share updated certificates of insurance with lenders, brokers, and any partners that require verification of coverage.

Maintaining organized documentation helps ensure your fleet remains compliant and fully protected.

Conclusion

Renewing your commercial truck insurance should never be treated as a routine paperwork task. It is a critical part of managing risk, controlling operating costs, and keeping your trucks compliant with lender and regulatory requirements.

Taking time to review your coverage and compare insurers helps ensure your fleet stays properly protected.

Careful planning around insurance costs also helps you make smarter financial decisions as your business grows.

At Mission Financial Services, we work with truck owners and small fleets every day who are balancing insurance costs with equipment financing and business growth. Planning these expenses properly can help you make better decisions when financing or expanding your fleet.

If you’re planning to purchase a new or used semi-truck, our team can help you explore commercial truck financing options designed for owner-operators and small fleets. Get in touch and start your credit application today.

Frequently Asked Questions

When Should I Renew My Commercial Truck Insurance?

Most trucking businesses should begin their renewal process about 30 to 60 days before the policy expiration date. Starting early provides enough time to review your policy, compare quotes, and avoid coverage gaps.

Why Did My Truck Insurance Premium Increase?

Premium increases are often tied to broader industry trends such as higher repair costs, increased claims settlements, and tighter underwriting standards. Individual factors like driving records, safety scores, or frequent claims can also affect pricing.

Can I Switch Insurance Providers Before Renewal?

Yes. Many trucking companies explore new providers during their commercial insurance renewal period. Comparing options across the insurance market helps determine whether another insurance company offers better pricing or coverage.

What Happens if My Commercial Insurance Lapses?

A lapse in insurance can lead to regulatory issues, lender penalties, and higher future premiums. Maintaining continuous coverage ensures your trucks remain legally compliant and financially protected.

Does My Lender Require Specific Insurance Limits?

Most lenders require minimum liability limits and designation as a loss payee on financed vehicles. Always verify the specific insurance requirements before finalizing your renewal.

Best Commercial Truck Insurance Brokers

Finding the best commercial truck insurance brokers can be a tricky task.

Before you go ahead and sign a policy with the first insurance provider you come across, make sure you understand what options are out there. Different commercial insurance plans can vary significantly in both cost and coverage. Your truck is your business’s most important asset, so you must protect it adequately.

This guide explores some of the best brokers to consider to help you find the right insurance company to match your commercial trucking needs.

How To Choose The Best Commercial Truck Insurance Brokers

There are many different commercial truck insurance companies- each offering its unique policies, pros, and cons.

Choosing the right commercial truck insurance company is one of the most important decisions when setting up your trucking business. Your insurance provider can majorly impact your business’s financial security and overall operations.

To help you make an informed choice, here are some crucial steps and considerations to consider when choosing between commercial truck insurance companies.

Assess Your Needs

Understand your business’s unique commercial trucking insurance needs. Factors like the type of trucks you have, the cargo you transport, the routes you take, and your safety record all play a role in the kind of commercial auto insurance you choose.

Research Reputation

Always look for commercial truck insurance companies with a solid reputation in the industry.

Read online reviews, ask for recommendations from other trucking businesses, and check the broker’s history of claims handling and customer service. Getting first-hand feedback from their clients is incredibly valuable when choosing a commercial truck insurance policy.

Expertise

Choose a broker with experience in the commercial trucking industry. Truck insurance can be complex, so working with a broker who understands the specific challenges and regulations of the trucking industry is essential.

Coverage Options

Understand the range of coverage options the commercial trucking broker offers. They should be able to customize policies to meet your unique needs, business size, and motor truck cargo.

This means small owner-operators or trucking companies operating a large fleet can find a suitable commercial truck insurance policy.

Compare Quotes

Getting quotes from multiple brokers to compare their commercial truck insurance premiums and coverage is always a good idea.

This will give you a clear picture of the market rates and help you identify unusually high or low quotes. It will also help you understand which commercial auto insurance policy offers the best coverage.

Claims Handling Process

Ask about the broker’s claims handling process. You want to look for a broker that offers smooth and efficient claims processing. The easier and faster it is to make claims, the more value you could get from the commercial insurance provider.

Transparency

The commercial truck insurance provider should be transparent about the terms and conditions of their policies. Avoid brokers who seem evasive or hesitant to provide clear information. Make sure you understand every detail of the insurance costs, terms, and coverage that they offer.

Additional Services

Some brokers offer extra services like risk management advice, safety training resources, and compliance support. These value-added services can be valuable for your trucking business.

You’ll also want to understand the full range of coverage options the broker offers. Beyond simply insuring your vehicle, look for business insurance, general liability, non-trucking liability coverage, cargo insurance, medical costs, rental reimbursement, and more. There are many different elements that your commercial truck insurance policy can cover.

8 Best Commercial Truck Insurance Brokers To Consider

Now that you know what to look for in a commercial truck insurance broker, it’s time to compare different companies. Here are some of the best commercial truck insurance brokers to consider.

Progressive Commercial

Progressive Commercial is a big name in the insurance industry, offering a range of commercial insurance options. Additionally, Progressive vehicle insurance provides comprehensive coverage for commercial trucks, including plans for trucking businesses of all sizes.

Nationwide

Nationwide provides all kinds of insurance plans – including coverage for commercial trucks. The company has a strong presence in the insurance market and offers flexible plans to match your specific needs.

Allstate

Allstate offers tailored commercial truck insurance solutions. The company provides detailed coverage solutions, helping protect your vehicle and business. This includes collision coverage, liability coverage, comprehensive coverage, and more.

OOIDA

Owner Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) offers affordable coverage for small business owners. The association provides a full range of coverage options tailored to individual truck drivers’ needs.

Aon

Aon is a global company that offers a range of insurance products – including commercial truck insurance. Their policies are flexible to match your specific business needs.

CoverWallet

CoverWallet is technically not an insurance company – it’s an online insurance aggregator tool. However, comparing commercial trucking insurance options is beneficial to find the best broker for your needs.

Evolution Insurance Brokers

Evolution Insurance Brokers offers comprehensive coverage for truckers. Their commercial trucking insurance policies are designed to meet the needs of truckers and businesses of all sizes – including short and long-haul trucking insurance.

The Hartford

The Hartford is a well-respected and long-standing trucking insurance provider. This commercial trucking insurance company is ideal for large fleets, offering nationwide comprehensive coverage options. The company also offers multiple discounts, making the commercial truck insurance cost worthwhile.

Conclusion

These are some of the best commercial truck insurance companies out there. However, the broker and insurance policy you choose should come down to your specific business requirements. Always compare policies and providers to find a solution that matches your business needs perfectly.

Commercial truck insurance is an essential step in buying a semi-truck. You’ll also need to get the proper funding. If you’re interested in purchasing a new vehicle, then get in touch with us at Mission Financial, where we can help you gain the financing you’re after.

What To Expect From A Job As A Commercial Truck Driver

Are you interested in becoming a commercial truck driver? It can be a fantastic career path for the right person.

Being a truck driver involves much more than just sitting behind the wheel on a highway. You’ll need to manage many different responsibilities and skills on each delivery route you drive. No two days as a commercial truck driver are the same.

Fortunately, we’re here to break down what to expect based on real work hours and daily routines, and the trucking reality for modern truckers.

How Many Hours Do Truck Drivers Work?

Most truck drivers work up to 11 hours of driving time within a 14-hour on-duty window. That’s the standard set by federal hours of service regulations, often called HOS rules.

Here’s how the system works:

You can drive up to 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty
You have a 14-hour driving window to complete your workday
You must take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
You’re limited to 60 hours over 7 days or 70 hours over 8 days

These service rules apply to most commercial driver’s license (CDL) drivers, whether you’re running a local job or working as one of the many long-haul truck drivers running coast to coast.

Not all your work hours are spent driving. Your clock keeps running while you:

Wait at a dock
Handle unloading cargo
Complete inspections
Deal with paperwork

That means your day can stretch long even if your actual driving time stays under limits. Most truck drivers quickly learn that managing the full work window is more important than just tracking miles.

Driver fatigue is a real issue in this industry. The HOS regulations exist to reduce fatigue-related accidents and keep drivers safe during long periods behind the wheel. If you exceed your limits, you risk fines, violations, and shutdowns.

What a Typical Day Looks Like for Long-haul Truck Drivers

A typical day in truck driving follows a general flow, but no two days ever run exactly the same.

You start with a pre-trip inspection. You check your truck, trailer, tires, lights, and load. Skipping this step leads to breakdowns, delays, or even an accident.

Then you hit the road. Driving usually happens in blocks. You plan your routes around fuel stops, required breaks, and traffic. If you’re an over-the-road driver, you may spend long hours covering hundreds of miles in a single day.

Throughout the day, you’ll:

Stop for your required break
Fuel your long-haul truck
Adjust your route for traffic or weather

Adverse driving conditions like storms or road closures can slow everything down. When that happens, your entire schedule shifts.

At your destination, you deal with delivery. That can mean waiting hours at a dock, helping with unloading, or verifying paperwork. After that, you log your hours, update records, and plan your next load.

Key Responsibilities of a Commercial Truck Driver

Being a truck driver is a dynamic and challenging job with various functions. While no two truck drivers’ jobs are the same, here are some primary responsibilities you can expect as a commercial truck driver.

Driving Long Hours

Of course, the main thing you can expect as a truck driver is spending long hours driving your semi-truck. Depending on the type of trucking you do, this could involve driving across states or even across countries. However, you could also do shorter local routes.

As a long-haul commercial truck driver, you can expect irregular work schedules and possibly overnight trips or extended stays away from home. Being a truck driver is all about traveling long distances and spending the bulk of your working hours behind the wheel.

Driving long hours directly impacts your income. The more miles you cover, the more money you typically earn. But pushing too hard leads to fatigue and compliance issues.

Safety Responsibilities

Safety is a top priority in commercial truck driving. You will be responsible for the safe operation of your vehicle, which involves maintaining a safe speed, following traffic laws, and being alert to potential hazards on the road.

You’ll also need to ensure you keep your cargo safe, as this is why you’re driving your trucking route in the first place. Depending on the type of cargo you’re carrying, you may need special skills and qualifications to manage it.

Safety affects everything. One violation or accident can shut down your operation or increase your insurance costs overnight.

Vehicle Inspections

Beyond just driving a truck, commercial truck drivers also need to make sure their trucks are in good condition and adhere to federal regulations. As your vehicle is vital to your job, you must spend plenty of time keeping it running well.

Before and after each trip, you’ll need to thoroughly inspect your truck, checking for any mechanical issues, leaks, or other problems that could affect its safety or performance. This means commercial truck drivers need to have a good understanding of the different parts of their truck and how their truck works.

Downtime costs money. A missed issue can turn into a breakdown that takes you off the road for days.

Maintaining a Delivery Schedule

The whole reason that commercial truck drivers are on the roads is to ensure their cargo is delivered to the right place on time. This means commercial truck driving involves managing delivery schedules and working within tight time frames.

As a commercial truck driver, you must know how to plan your routes and drive efficiently to keep your deliveries on schedule. Missed delivery windows can reduce pay or cost you future loads with a trucking company.

Paperwork and Records

Everything you do as a commercial truck driver needs to be recorded. This is important for the smooth operation of your trucking business and for any legal reasons, like making a commercial insurance claim.

You’ll be responsible for maintaining accurate records, including logbooks, mileage reports, and delivery receipts. This documentation helps with compliance. It also makes it easier to get paid. If your logs are off, you risk audits and lost income.

How Much Does a Commercial Truck Driver Make?

Truck driver pay varies depending on experience, equipment, routes, and how you’re paid, but recent data shows that earnings are stronger than you might expect.

As of 2026, the average truck driver salary in the United States sits around $92,000 per year, based on aggregated job posting data.

Entry-level drivers or those in lower-paying local roles may earn closer to $45,000 annually, while experienced drivers, specialized haulers, or owner-operators can earn well into the six-figure range, with top earnings approaching $190,000 or more.

The biggest factor behind this range is how drivers are compensated. Company drivers are typically paid per mile, per load, or as a salary, while owner-operators earn based on revenue generated from loads, minus operating expenses like fuel, maintenance, and insurance. This means gross income for owner-operators can be significantly higher, but so are the costs.

Other key factors that impact earnings include:

Type of freight: Specialized loads (hazmat, oversized, refrigerated) often pay more
Route type: Long-haul (OTR) drivers usually earn more than local or regional drivers
Experience level: Higher-paying loads and contracts tend to go to more experienced drivers
Equipment ownership: Owning your truck opens up higher revenue potential but adds risk

Ultimately, truck driving income is less about a fixed salary and more about how you structure your operation. Drivers who optimize routes, control costs, and secure consistent work tend to earn the most over time.

Types of Truck Driving Jobs and How They Affect Your Schedule

Commercial truck driving could look very different for each commercial motor vehicle driver. This depends on the type of trucking you do.

Local drivers usually run shorter routes. You start and end at the same work reporting location each day. You get more predictable work hours and consistent home time.
Regional drivers cover a wider area. You might be out for several consecutive days, then home for a reset. Your schedule has more variation, but still some structure.
Long-haul drivers or over-the-road (OTR) drivers spend extended time on the road. You may live out of a sleeper berth and run across the country. These drivers deal with irregular schedules, long periods away from home, and heavier reliance on HOS rules.

Luckily, the demand for goods transport keeps the trucking industry relatively stable. This means you should have good job security as a reliable driver. In the end, your schedule, income, and lifestyle all depend on the type of routes you decide to run.

The Skills You Need to Succeed as a Truck Driver

To become a commercial truck driver, you must match the right skills for the job. Here are some of the most essential skills you should possess:

Physical stamina: Truck driving can be physically demanding, as you may be required to load and unload cargo, handle paperwork, and spend extended periods sitting and driving. Make sure you’re up for the challenge.
Independence: While you may have a dispatcher or supervisor to guide you, commercial truck driving involves plenty of independence. You’ll be responsible for making decisions on the road and completing your deliveries. You’ll also be alone for long periods.
Time and stress management: Commercial truck drivers manage tight schedules. You must also know how to keep calm in emergencies or stressful driving conditions. Good planning helps you protect your driving window, avoid wasted hours, and keep loads moving on time.
Communication: Even though you spend long periods alone, you must also deal with multiple people in the supply chain. You’ll need to show good communication skills to everyone involved in your delivery schedule and other drivers. This is essential for smooth trucking operations. Clear updates with dispatchers, shippers, and receivers can prevent delays and protect your pay.

Licensing, Training, and Requirements

To become a commercial truck driver, you’ll need a CDL specific to the type of commercial vehicle you’ll be operating. The specific process and training in getting your commercial driver’s license can differ from state to state.

That CDL proves you have the baseline training to operate a commercial vehicle safely, but it’s only the starting point. New drivers also need to understand how their license connects to the type of truck they drive, the cargo they haul, and the routes they plan to run.

You must also have relevant qualifications and licenses to carry certain goods. Some types of dangerous cargo require additional training.

That’s where endorsements come in. Hazmat, tanker, and doubles/triples endorsements can open the door to more specialized freight. Those loads often come with stricter rules, but they can also give drivers access to better-paying opportunities and steadier work.

CDL drivers also need to ensure they stay updated with the laws and regulations around commercial trucking wherever they operate. These laws can often differ as you pass state borders, so ensure you understand what is required of you in each state you drive.

Rules affect your driving time, weight limits, inspection requirements, and paperwork. A missed requirement can lead to fines, delays, or lost loads.

For new drivers, staying compliant protects more than your license. It protects your income, your schedule, and your ability to keep moving.

Conclusion

Being a commercial truck driver is full of challenges. It’s also an exciting career path for people with the right skills and motivation.

Truck driving is demanding, but it’s structured. If you understand how hours, service regulations, and scheduling work, you can build a stable income and long-term career in this industry.

Many drivers start as company drivers, then move into ownership to gain more control over their time and money. If you’re planning that next step, having the right financing partner makes a difference.

You may also need to purchase a semi-truck to start a trucking business. Mission Financial Services makes it easy for any commercial truck driver to gain financing for buying a vehicle. Start your credit application today for fast and easy financing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Hours Do Truck Drivers Work?

Most truck drivers work up to 11 hours of driving within a 14-hour on-duty window, following federal HOS regulations.

How Many Hours Do Truck Drivers Work per Week?

Drivers can work up to 60 hours over 7 days or 70 hours over 8 days, depending on their schedule and employer.

Are Truck Driving Hours Flexible?

They can be. Local drivers have more predictable schedules, while long-haul drivers deal with more variation depending on routes and freight.

What are the 14 Hour HOS Rules for Truck Drivers?

The 14-hour rule limits how long you can stay on duty after starting your day. Once your 14-hour window closes, you must take the required rest before driving again.

Do Truck Drivers Make $100,000 a Year?

Yes, many truck drivers can earn $100,000 or more per year, but it depends on the type of work. Experienced drivers, long-haul (OTR) drivers, and those hauling specialized freight are the most likely to reach this level. Owner-operators can also exceed $100,000 in gross income, though they have higher expenses that reduce take-home pay.

What State Has The Cheapest Commercial Truck Insurance 2023

We went digging to figure out what state has the cheapest commercial truck insurance in 2023 and noticed a few things:

Each state sets its minimum commercial truck insurance law requirements based on different factors affecting the insurance rates offered per state.

Insurance providers use different criteria to determine their truck insurance premiums. But there are a few steps you can take to find an insurance provider with the cheapest commercial truck insurance rates.

Read on for our findings on the state with the most affordable truck insurance. We’ll also share how to find cheap truck insurance to help you save money.

What State Has The Cheapest Commercial Truck Insurance

From our findings, the state with the cheapest commercial truck insurance is Mississippi.
In Mississippi, commercial truck insurance costs about $3,552 per year for local commercial truck drivers or owner-operators. If you operate across states, Mississippi’s average insurance cost increases to nearly $4,664 per year.

Still, it’s cheaper than in other states. Local trucking entrepreneurs in California pay around $11,834 per year, while interstate owner-operators pay approximately $14,041.

Meaning local and interstate owner-operators in Mississippi save about $8282 and $9377 in premium costs per year, respectively, compared to their counterparts in California.

This shows you can save tens of thousands of dollars in insurance premium costs by operating from states with affordable insurance costs.

Here is a summary of the top 5 states with the cheapest commercial truck insurance rates and the most expensive states for you to see the cost difference.

Top 5 States With The Cheapest Commercial Truck Insurance Costs

1. Mississippi

Average local truck insurance rates: $3, 552
Average national truck insurance rates: $4,664

2. Wyoming

Average local truck insurance rates: $4.927
Average national truck insurance rates: $7,149

3. Massachusetts

Average local truck insurance: $5,447
Average national truck insurance rates: $17,017

4. Iowa

Average local truck insurance: $5,615
Average national truck insurance rates: $8,866

5. Arizona

Average local truck insurance: $6,102
Average national truck insurance rates: $11,797

Top 5 States with the Most Expensive Commercial Truck Insurance Costs

1. New Jersey

Average local truck insurance rates: $20,763
Average national truck insurance rates: $20,255

2. Louisiana

Average local truck insurance rates: $19,736
Average national truck insurance rates: $23,453

3. Delaware

Average local truck insurance rates: $17,351
Average national truck insurance rates: $19,670

4. New York

Average local truck insurance rates: $16,949
Average national truck insurance rates: $17,585

5. Connecticut

Average local truck insurance rates: $16,946
Average national truck insurance rates: $17,004

From these comparisons, you can quickly tell the states to avoid, especially if you’re a new commercial truck driver looking to start your trucking business. Remember that these are the average insurance costs.

In Mississippi, the top state with the lowest insurance rates, the amount you’ll pay depends on two major factors:

State minimum requirements
How much coverage you get

What are the State Requirements of Commercial Truck Insurance in Mississippi?

Mississippi state law requires owner-operators to get minimum liability insurance premiums based on the type of freight they carry and where they carry it.

For example, owner-operators working within the state, that carry household goods must have a minimum of $300,000 commercial trucking insurance. While there is a $1,000,000 minimum for oil transport.

The requirements might be more extensive if you’re an owner-operator working interstate. You’ll have to meet the above and comply with other commercial auto insurance requirements by the federal government.

Check out the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)’s insurance policy requirements for commercial trucks to understand which commercial truck insurance applies to you.

Mississippi State Minimums Amounts Payable by Insurers

Mississippi state law sets the minimum amount insurance companies must pay as compensation when trucking accidents occur. All auto insurance policies in the state must have a 25/50/25 minimum liability coverage limit. This means paying a minimum of:

$25,000 bodily injury liability for each person injured during trucking accidents involving your commercial trucks
$50,000 in bodily injury liability per trucking accident, and
$25,000 property damage liability

For adequate protection, it’s advisable to go for an insurance policy with higher coverage limits. Also, consider going for different types of truck insurance coverage suitable to your trucking business to cushion yourself from various costly claims.

What Insurance Coverage Options Does Mississippi Offer?

Primary Liability Insurance Coverage

Primary liability coverage is the most basic commercial trucking insurance required by all federal and state laws. It combines two different types of commercial trucking insurance into one – property damage liability and bodily injury liability.

Physical Damage Insurance

Physical damage insurance is comprehensive. It includes collision coverage, which pays for commercial truck repairs in case of collision damage, and coverage for damages from other incidents, such as vandalism. It’s essential liability insurance to have, although it’s not legally required, like primary liability coverage.

Non-trucking Liability Coverage

Non-trucking liability coverage protects your commercial truck if it causes injuries or damages property when out on personal or non-work-related errands. It’s different from personal auto insurance, which is insurance coverage for personal or non-commercial vehicles.

Cargo Insurance

Cargo insurance coverage compensates when the goods you haul get lost or damaged in transit. FMCSA does not require a motor carrier to have this type of semi-truck insurance. However, most for-hire interstate commercial trucking companies require autonomous truck drivers to purchase cargo insurance before hiring trucks.

Overall, each commercial trucking insurance option comes with its cost, and how much coverage you choose affects your total insurance cost. A trucker who gets a commercial truck insurance policy offering primary liability coverage will pay less than another who chooses more coverage options.

How To Find Cheap Truck Insurance

It’s unlikely that two trucking companies will pay the exact insurance costs even if they both operate in the same state and choose the same coverage options.

Different insurance companies consider various factors when setting their rates. A trucking business with high credit scores and experienced drivers with clean driving records will qualify for cheap trucking insurance from multiple insurance companies. In contrast, a similar trucking business with inexperienced truck drivers and low credit won’t.

To find cheap truck insurance, compare quotes from different insurance companies. Get help from a licensed insurance agent. Qualified insurance agents can help you identify the best insurance providers following your business needs and the type of contracts you plan to get.

Most licensed insurance agents are also aware of ongoing offers and discounts and can help you get the lowest insurance costs possible.

You can find the best commercial truck insurance agents close to you by doing a quick Google search and typing in your state and city. You’ll get a list of recommendations to start with. Ensure you read reviews of insurance agents that stand out to settle on the best one.

Conclusion

Commercial truck insurance takes different forms in different states, but if too costly it might affect your profit margins.

We’ve answered the question: What state has the cheapest commercial truck insurance? We’ve also shown you how to find the most affordable trucking insurance provider.

But remember, the cheapest state may not always be the best state for truckers. There’s a difference between the two. To learn more about this, head over to the Mission Financial Services blog.

The Dangers of Distracted Driving: How You Can Help

Tips for Avoiding Distracted Driving

It’s officially Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Throughout the month of April, different organizations unite to help drivers safely reach their destinations by encouraging them to remain focused behind the wheel. According to a recent study by the National Highway Transportation Administration (NHTSA), 3,142 people were fatally injured due to distracted driving.

Distracted driving affects hundreds of people every single day. And what many people don’t know is how it can impact heavy-duty truck drivers. This Distracted Driving Awareness Month, we encourage you to put down your phone, follow the speed limit, and eliminate distractions. In this blog, we will tell you everything you need to know about distracted driving and tips on how to eliminate distractions from your daily commute.

Facts about distracted driving

While answering the phone, eating a quick snack, or jamming to your favorite song may seem harmless, they can have critical consequences when done behind the wheel. When studied, researchers found that reading a text message for five seconds while traveling at a speed of 55 mph is equivalent to driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.

Need more reasons to eliminate distractions from your drivetime?

Here are a few facts about distracted driving:

A 2020 study done by the NHTSA found that 7% of all fatal crashes in 2019 were caused by or related to distracted driving.
Another NHTSA study found that 8% of fatal crashes, 15% of injury crashes, and 14% of all police-reported traffic accidents were distraction-affected crashes. Overall, approximately 400,000 people were injured, and 2,841 people died.
The NHTSA reported that 1 out of every 5 people killed by a distracted driver was not in a vehicle (walking, jogging, biking, etc.) at the time of the accident.
The CDC found that drivers between 15 and 19 were more likely to drive distracted than drivers 20 years of age and older. And 9% of all teen drivers who died in vehicular accidents were involved in distraction-affected crashes.
According to the IIHS, the fatal crash rate is three times greater for teen drivers.
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that driver distraction is the cause of more than 58% of crashes involving teen drivers.
A research study from Cambridge Mobile Telematics showed that distracted driving habits occurred in more than 36% of all trips across the United States.

The risks are even higher when a truck driver is distracted at the wheel. In fact, “distracted truck driving is more likely to result in fatalities than other types of automotive accidents.” This is because the weight and force of heavy-duty vehicles are much greater than that of a standard passenger vehicle, making them more dangerous in the event of a collision. That is why truck drivers must do their part in eliminating distractions from their drive.

3 types of distracted driving

Over the years, experts in traffic safety have classified distractions into three main categories: Cognitive, Manual, and Visual. If you’ve ever been driving and started thinking about a conversation you had earlier that day or your mental to-do list, you’ve had a cognitive distraction. By definition, a cognitive distraction is when your thoughts distract you from the task of driving. A manual distraction is when you remove your hands from the steering wheel. For example, eating a sandwich or rummaging through your bag is considered a manual distraction. A visual distraction happens when your eyes are not on the road. For instance, if you apply makeup or search for something in your vehicle, you are driving while visually distracted.

Using your phone while driving, including texting or reading messages, combines all three categories of distractions. The University of Utah found that those who use their phones while driving are 5.36 times more likely to get into an accident than undistracted drivers. The university also found that those who text and drive are comparable to people who drive with a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.08%. For truckers, texting while driving increases your risk of crashing by 23 times, according to Virginia Technical Transportation Institute.

Tips for avoiding distractions

Now that you have all the information about distracted driving, it’s time to help put an end to it. Putting a stop to distracted driving starts with you.

Here are some tips for remaining focused while driving:

Don’t eat and drive. Eating will take your hands off the steering wheel and your attention away from driving. If you’re traveling and want a quick bite to eat, find somewhere safe to park and enjoy your break from driving.
Put your phone away. Use ‘Do Not Disturb’ or ‘Driving Mode’ to disable incoming messages, calls, and notifications. Placing your phone in your bag or glove box will also help eliminate your temptation to use it.
Just focus. Avoid multitasking by setting your GPS, picking out your music, and making calls or sending texts before you start driving.
Keep your music low. Loud music could prevent you from hearing emergency vehicles and CB warnings.
Properly secure your belongings. Items falling throughout the vehicle could distract you from the road ahead. Before you take off, secure loose objects and belongings properly.
Get plenty of rest. Being tired could cause you to be unalert or fall asleep behind the wheel.

Observe Distracted Driving Awareness Month

Observe Distracted Driving Awareness Month by:

Taking the pledge to end distracted driving.
Supporting campaigns developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and National Safety Council, as well as state, county, and local law enforcement agencies.

Using the hashtag #DistractedDrivingAwarenessMonth when posting on social media this month.

For more articles about driver safety, click here!

Women in the Trucking Industry

It’s officially Women’s History Month! And while women in the trucking industry is nothing new, there has definitely been an increase in the number of females entering the field that has traditionally been male-dominated.

So, in honor of this month, and International Women’s Day on March 8, we have developed the ultimate trucking guide for women to encourage and aid the industry’s future drivers. This guide will go over how to get started, why more women should enter the field, and why “hiring women drivers is a viable and responsible option for reducing the driver shortage and boosting profitability.”

How to get started as a truck driver

Before starting your career as a truck driver, you will need to obtain proper training and necessary certifications, including a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) license and certificate. To acquire these licenses, you’ll need to complete driving school. However, each state is different, so it’s essential to research your state’s requirements for certification.

Trucking education and coaching/mentor programs are designed to prepare you for the road ahead and assist you in finding the right job within the industry. Some resources that will help you begin your journey to becoming a driver include:

LeadHERtrucking from Women in Trucking (WIT);
Engage Mentor Match through WIT;
The Women in Trucking Foundation (WITF) Scholarship
WIT Professional Development Certification Training

Once you’ve completed your education and training, it’s time to look for opportunities at companies that are reputable and a good fit for you.

When it comes to finding a job in the trucking industry, your mentor or trainer may be able to place you in a position that is right for you. However, if you find yourself searching on your own, you can try browsing job boards, bulletins, or company career sites. When vetting these potential workplaces, it’s vital to look for female-specific training options, positive reviews on sites like Glassdoor, a clean track record, and pictures of female drivers on their website.

What makes truck driving a great career for women?

Being a truck driver comes with its fair share of perks that make it a great career choice for women looking to be financially secure and independent, including:

Accessible opportunities
Competitive salaries
Flexible scheduling
Full employer benefits
Professional training opportunities
Thriving freelance market
Variety of available jobs and career paths to choose from

Unlike most jobs, truck driving offers reliable income. Plus, it gives drivers the chance to work in an environment free of micromanagement with plenty of opportunities to use unique problem-solving skills. Being a truck driver also allows you to avoid the highly repetitive workforce that most women are corralled into.

Why do women make great truck drivers?

Not only are more and more women becoming interested in truck driving jobs, but recruiters are noticing studies and statistics that prove just how essential women truck drivers are to the industry.

Here are just 3 of the reasons why women make excellent drivers:

1. Lower driver turnover

Driver turnover for large fleets typically runs in the 90th percentile, according to the American Trucking Associations (ATA). However, the driver retention rate for women is much higher, meaning women are more likely to remain with one trucking company for a longer period of time than men. The ability to retain truck drivers allows carriers to avoid turnover and retraining costs, which can be quite expensive and time-consuming.

2. Fewer accidents

Despite the stereotypes, women truck drivers, statistically, are involved in fewer accidents, including rollovers and rear-end collisions. Carriers looking to “boost their profits by curtailing insurance and litigation costs should take note of the reliability and safety records being compiled by women in the truck driving workforce.”

3. Higher mileage

On average, women in trucking tend to log more miles than men. When drivers are able to keep their wheels turning for longer periods of time, they are able to earn more money for themselves and their employer.

4 tips for women truck drivers

1. Network, Network, Network.

One of the many beauties of being a truck driver is gaining access to the large and strong community of fellow drivers. This network of people is always willing to guide and support new drivers, so take full advantage of the wealth of knowledge and experience they offer. Who knows, networking could even help advance your career.

2. Plan your routes.

Planning your routes is a vital component of being a successful truck driver. Not only does it make your job easier by eliminating unnecessary stress, but it also keeps you safer and on time. Need help creating a schedule? Try using scheduling apps and online templates.

3. Find and maintain your support system.

Having a network of fellow professionals is as crucial to your success as having a personal support system when you come home. As a truck driver, you will spend a lot of time on the road, so it is helpful to have people who can handle things at home. This will offer you peace of mind while you are away.

4. Install a CB radio

CB radios have been an essential communication tool for truck drivers and show no signs of disappearing any time soon. Why? Compared to cell phones, CBs are more reliable in areas with poor reception, which can be vital when trying to contact someone for help. Drivers also use them to warn other drivers of upcoming road hazards, traffic, and more.

Happy International Women’s Day!