The last time I sought insurance for my automobile I was asked about the way I use it. I related that I drove back and forth from work and took the car to do errands for groceries and supplies. Since then, I have retired and we have gone through two years of COVID. I am pretty confident that my use of the vehicle is well within the bounds required by my insurance contract. I wonder if the companies that insure the trucks involved in the occupation of Ottawa and the disruption of essential traffic in Canadian cities are including this usage in the coverage offered by their policies.
In my province, when I renew my vehicle permit, I may be required to settle outstanding tickets charged against my vehicle to complete the process. It seems to me that my driving record is something that helps determine my insurance premium. James Menzies writes that many trucking companies have decided to steer clear of Ottawa protests. Derek Koza, of Wellington Motor Freight, pointed out another reason company equipment can’t be seen in such events.
“Due to insurance concerns we would not allow company branded equipment to participate in the convoy as the usage would be outside of the scope of our policy use. Wellington Group of Companies will not block individuals from using their personal vehicles and participating in the convoy should they wish as we support freedom of speech in a respectful and peaceful delivery.”1
Sierra Alley reports about violations that might be hurting trucking insurance rates. An interview on November 16, on TalkCDL Trucking Podcast featured a REV insurance representative who discussed rates and the tangible steps truckers can take to keep their premiums down.
Accidents on record
Speeding tickets
Open containers or illegal substances on the truck
Safety violations that are logged on DOT reports
Tickets or accidents as a result of using handheld devices
There are common coverages recommended.
General Liability Coverage: This covers the actions of a driver who is operating on someone else’s premises, such as loading docks and truck stops. It provides coverage for bodily injury to others and damage to the property of others due to a vehicle accident.
Primary Liability Coverage: This does not cover your truck, but rather covers the damage you may do to others while operating your truck.
Physical Damage Coverage: Provides coverage to repair or replace damage to your equipment in the event of an accident or other risks, such as fire, theft, glass breakage, or vandalism.
Non-Trucking Liability Coverage: Coverage for damages or injuries to others while the truck is not under dispatch from the company you are currently leased with.
Cargo Coverage — Protects your cargo against damage or loss while in transit, whether that be stolen goods, wet load, refrigeration breakdown, debris removal, etc.
Trailer Interchange: Covers a non-owned trailer being used under a trailer interchange agreement.
Medical Payment: This covers medical bills if you or a passenger is injured while driving or riding in the tractor, this coverage varies from state to state.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists: This coverage protects you if someone hits you and does not have liability coverage to repair whatever you need repaired2
I imagine that enforcement personnel moving from vehicle to vehicle asking for proof of insurance, issuing tickets, and possibly more serious warrants would create a disincentive for truck operators to remain in a situation that threatens their ongoing cost for vehicle insurance.
References
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