Saturday, February 21, 2009

Insurance and Trucking

By Steve Turner

There are numerous factors that make up a premium for truck insurance. Laws are different across the United states, but there are specific requirements everyone has to meet. Some of the issues are the cargo that is being transported, the type of driver, and the worth of the truck.

The number one factor affecting truck insurance rates is the quality of drivers. Owners and hiring managers often run efficient, profitable businesses, but are negligent in their hiring practices. Unaware of the risks that come from hiring poor drivers, trucking company owners may find themselves behind bars, sentenced up to ten years for negligent hiring practices.

Drivers need a "one strike" policy where drivers are never allowed to make more than one mistake. For example, dealing with a phone while your driving a oversized truck should result in firing that employee. Trucks are much more dangerous, which is why those who operate it need to be held responsible. This is why trucks can be more expensive to cover.

It is wise if hauling steel for example, to target customers close by, rather than sending drivers great distances. This may not be easily accomplished, but it is often found that trucking companies fail to target their "neighbors" when looking for customers. An ideal radius would be no more than 300 miles from the company's home base.

It is needless to say that the types of commodities hauled affect the rates. Next to toxic waste, or hazardous material, refrigerated goods are commonly the most expensive to insure. Hauled in reefer trailers with climate control, there is more than just the risk of crashing the truck, but the cooling equipment breaking and having a load of spoiled goods safely delivered to the planned destination.

Most insurance companies will offer on-site safety training courses for their larger customers. It is recommended that trucking companies take advantage of this training if it available. Larger insurance companies will have trained safety personnel that are able to explain some of the most common types of accidents and how these accidents can be avoided. These safety personnel usually have a significant amount of experience driving or running a trucking company.

Be aware of the issues that increase your payments and ways to receive discounts. There are specific details you need to know, such as making claims. The internet is a great source to get educated. Shop around today and get insured. - 15224

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