Frequently Asked Questions
Commercial Truck Requirements
What is the minimum commercial insurance coverage I need to get my authority?
As an owner operator, with your own authority, you are required to at least have a primary liability insurance policy. The FMCSA requires that you have a minimum limit of $750,000. There might be other requirements depending on the area that your business operates in.
Additionally, many shippers or brokers require that you have $1,000,000 before they’ll work with you. And, the most common request for Cargo Insurance is $100,000, but it also depends on what your vehicles transport.
What permits will I need to operate nationwide?
To operate nationwide, you’ll need MC Authority along with a DOT number.
Can San Diego Truck Insurance help me get the required permits and licenses to operate?
Yes! Our agents at San Diego Truck Insurance can help you figure out what permits and licenses are required for your specific business. Then, we can help you file accordingly.
Commercial Insurance
What are commercial truck risks?
When you use commercial trucks for your business, you’re subject to many risks. Commercial Insurance protects you from these risks! For example, if your vehicle is involved in an accident, you could cause damage to someone’s property or bodily injury to someone.
If you had to pay for these damages or medical bills without insurance, the costs could hinder your business. That’s why these risks are covered under the required Liability Insurance policy needed to operate a commercial truck.
Which commercial trucks are considered “high risk”?
There are some commercial trucks that are considered “high-risk” and that some insurance companies won’t work with. This usually has to do with the cargo that you carry.
For example, if your business transports or moves hazmat materials, jewelry, animals, or another high-risk freight type, it can be harder to find a good policy. San Diego Truck Insurance can help you navigate this process!
Is it possible to get an insurance policy with a DUI or a not great driving record?
Yes! San Diego Truck Insurance can help you get the best insurance policy, despite your driving record. Just let us know what your concerns are upfront and we’ll work with you to find the best insurance policy.
If I have to file a claim, how long will it impact my insurance?
Generally, claims will impact your insurance for about three years.
Can I terminate my policy without a penalty?
Yes! We won’t charge a penalty fee if you terminate your policy, so you don’t have to worry.
What does “unidentified trailer coverage” mean?
Unidentified trailers refer to any trailers attached to your tractor that you do not own.
What is the difference between “pro-rate” and “short-rate”?
Pro-rate essentially means that you only pay for the days you’re insured. Short-rate is when you are charged for the days you are insured, as well as an additional percentage or fee for cancelling early.
How do I remove a commercial vehicle from my policy?
Generally, to remove a commercial vehicle from your policy, you’ll need to sell or transfer the vehicle out of your name.
If a situation occurs where I have to travel outside of my usual operating radius, what should I do?
Don’t worry! Let San Diego Truck Insurance know where and how long you will be out of your usual operating radius. We will talk to the insurer; generally, they will make an exception.
If I relocate to another state, do I have to cancel and rewrite my insurance policy?
This depends on the insurance company that insures you. Some policies can be transferred, whereas others cannot. Let us know if you need to relocate ASAP and we’ll let you know what the next steps are.
Costs and Fees
Does San Diego Truck Insurance charge a fee for any changes or certificates?
No! We won’t charge fees for you to make any changes.
What is the average cost of commercial truck insurance?
The cost of commercial truck insurance depends on the factors of your business. The costs can change depending on the type of commercial vehicles you use, how many vehicles you have, how many drivers you have, and more.
Talk to an agent today about the details of your business and we can get you a free quote that is unique to you!
What payment methods can I use to pay for my insurance?
We accept a wide variety of payment types! This includes cash, checks (both personal and business), as well as most credit and debit cards (including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc.)
How can I make sure I’m getting the lowest rates possible?
San Diego Truck Insurance works with a variety of insurance companies. We have formed great relationships with these companies and, with our experience, we know what policies are best for the needs of your business. We will do everything in our power to get you the best policy at the best possible rate.
Why San Diego Truck Insurance?
What states does San Diego Truck Insurance provide commercial insurance for?
San Diego Truck Insurance can help you obtain insurance for any type of commercial truck throughout the entire state of California.
Which types of commercial vehicles can I get insurance for with San Diego Truck Insurance?
Almost any commercial vehicle! This includes not only trucks (i.e. semi-trucks, car carriers, dump trucks, cement trucks, etc.) but also trailers (i.e. flatbed trailers, refrigerated trailers, etc.) We’ll help you get the best policy no matter what commercial auto business you have!
What are the benefits of using San Diego Truck Insurance to purchase insurance?
San Diego Truck Insurance works with a variety of insurance companies. Therefore, we are able to get you the best policies at the best rates possible. And, because our team is knowledgeable about and trained in commercial auto business and insurance, we can help you through the entire process.
With us, you won’t have to worry about whether or not you’re meeting the legal requirements for your business. We will help you with everything along the way, so you’ll save money, time, and stress.
Still have questions?
Contact one of our agents at San Diego Truck Insurance and we’ll answer any other questions you have! Our team is here to help you with your commercial auto business needs.