How to Choose the Right California Trucking Insurance Plan

Posted on 15th June 2023

Securing trucking insurance is something that every trucking company and owner-operator must do. This coverage ensures protection in the event of accidents, thefts, and other unforeseen circumstances.

In California, you must take proper steps to find the right trucking insurance plan. California law requires all trucks on its roadways to have a valid insurance policy that has proper coverage levels.

You must also be following insurance requirements by federal law. Even if your trucks are leased, you must have primary auto liability that is at least $750,000 in insurance. Physical damage insurance is a necessity to cover your truck for comprehensive and collision, even though it is not required by law. However, if you are financing your equipment, this may be a condition of your terms.

With those points in mind, here’s how you can choose the right California trucking insurance plan.

Know the Minimum Requirements

The state laws for trucking insurance have major requirements, though the minimum may vary depending on the type of freight and the weight of the vehicle. Vehicles that weigh more than 10,000 pounds must include liability insurance coverage in the amount of $300,000 for transporting household goods, $750,000 for carrying general freight, $1,000,000 for transporting oil, and $5,000,000 for transporting hazardous materials.

Consider the Deductible

Naturally, you’ll want to choose a deductible you can afford. Keep in mind though that while you can save money on premiums by choosing a higher deductible, you will have to pay more out of your pocket if there’s an accident.

A better idea is to choose a deductible based on how much money you can truly afford to pay for repairs. There are ways to get combined deductibles, too, so be sure to ask about all your options rather than just focusing on the cheapest possible way to get coverage.

Don’t Keep Your Focus Solely on the Price

Speaking of pricing, you’ll want to weigh all the factors of a California trucking insurance plan, not just the price. It’s reasonable and prudent to want the most affordable rates available, but you need to remember why you’re buying this insurance in the first place.

If there’s an accident, you need coverage that will protect you and your company. You will want that coverage to step in and keep things from getting out of control to prevent your trucking business from going under.

Compare and Save

Comparing different insurance plans and packages among different insurers is always a good idea. Some may be able to offer you the chance to bundle your policies, which can also save you money.

Understand the Policy Limits

In addition to understanding your deductible, you need to understand the limits of the policy you choose. Part of that is the maximum amount of benefits they will pay. Multiple truck accident claims can put you over the maximum that you set, so be sure you take the time to fully discuss your options.

Visit https://simplexgroup.net/california/commercial-trucking-insurance/ to find out more about choosing the right California trucking insurance plan.