Commercial Truck Insurance in Texas: Everything You Need to Know

Texas is known for its larger-than-life everything, including the premiums you’ll pay without the help of a specialized independent insurance agency for Semi Truck Insurance, Box Truck Insurance, and Hotshot Insurance. Commercial Trucking Insurance (CTI) stands out as a leading expert across the United States, assisting countless fleet operators, trucking companies, and owner-operators.

Our team includes multiple trucking specialists with Transportation Risk Specialist (TRS) and Transportation Risk Insurance Professional (TRIP) certifications. Their dedication allows them to negotiate optimal coverage at competitive pricing with over 50 different truck insurance companies doing business in Texas.

Understanding Insurance Requirements in Texas

While there isn’t a specific type of truck insurance that is exclusive to Texas, insurance policies may vary in terms of coverage options, requirements, and rates based on state regulations and local conditions.

When seeking commercial truck insurance in Texas, it’s essential to work with a team that is familiar with the Lone Star State’s regulations and understands the unique challenges and risks associated with operating in Texas. Here are some considerations for truck insurance in the state:

Minimum Coverage Requirements

Texas mandates specific insurance coverage based on the gross vehicle weight (GVW) of your truck, with distinct requirements for different categories:

GVW under 26,000 pounds: Minimum $300,000 liability insurance.
GVW over 26,000 pounds: Minimum $500,000 liability insurance.
Hazardous Materials and Oil Transport: Minimum $1,000,000 liability insurance for those hauling oil or hazardous materials.

Cargo Coverage

Given the diverse industries and landscapes in Texas, the type of cargo your box trucks transport may vary. Some insurance providers offer specialized cargo coverage options that can be tailored to the specific needs of your trucking company and the types of goods you transport.

Key Insurance Filings for Compliance

To comply with Texas regulations, certain insurance filings are necessary:

Form E: Filed by your insurance company, confirming compliance with state insurance laws based on your truck size.
Form H: Verifies that you have the required cargo insurance.
Form T: Ensures that tow trucks meet the minimum insurance requirements.

Factors Influencing Insurance Costs

Insurance premiums for commercial trucking in Texas vary widely, influenced by several factors:

Business tenure
Claims history
Driving records
Cargo types
Credit score

Rates can range from $4,000 to $36,000. For an accurate quote, consult with a specialist.

Comprehensive Coverage Options

Ensuring your commercial truck is well-covered involves more than just basic liability insurance. Consider these additional coverages:

Physical Damage: Protects your truck against collision, vandalism, and fire.
General Liability: Covers injuries or accidents that occur on your business premises.
Reefer Breakdown: Essential for those hauling refrigerated goods, protecting against mechanical failures.
Trailer Interchange: Covers non-owned trailers for physical damage.
Non-Trucking Liability (Bobtail Insurance): Required when leasing your truck to another company.
Workers Compensation: Mandatory for businesses with employees, providing medical protection in case of job-related injuries.

Expanding Beyond State Lines

If your trucking business crosses state lines, you’ll need to comply with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, which require a minimum of $750,000 in auto liability insurance.

Legal obligation

A law in Texas mandates that all commercial vehicles operating in the state must carry a minimum level of primary liability insurance. Failure to comply with this requirement can result in fines, penalties, and even suspension of your commercial trucking license.

Financial protection

Accidents are an unfortunate reality in the trucking industry, and the financial consequences of an accident can be devastating without adequate commercial truck insurance coverage. Primary liability insurance acts as a financial shield, protecting your business from the potentially crippling costs of lawsuits and settlements. Everything is bigger in Texas, but your costs shouldn’t be as big.

Operational continuity

In the absence of primary liability insurance, your personal assets, such as your home, savings, and investments, could be at risk of being seized to satisfy legal judgments arising from trucking accidents. Primary liability insurance ensures that your personal assets remain protected.

It enhances your reputation

Maintaining primary liability insurance demonstrates your commitment to responsible and safe trucking practices. This, in turn, can enhance your reputation among clients, partners, and the wider community, potentially leading to more business opportunities.

Primary liability insurance is not only a legal requirement but a crucial risk management tool that protects your business, your commercial truck drivers, and the communities you serve. It ensures compliance, financial security, and responsible business practices in the commercial trucking landscape of Texas.

Understanding Requirements for Dump Truck Insurance in Texas

As a dump truck owner or operator in Texas, you are legally required to carry adequate insurance coverage to protect yourself and your business from potential liabilities arising from accidents or other mishaps involving your vehicles.

The specific insurance requirements vary depending on the size and type of dump truck you operate, the cargo you transport, and your business structure.

Minimum Liability Insurance Requirements

Texas law mandates that all heavy-duty commercial vehicles weighing over 10,001 pounds that carry non-hazardous materials must have primary liability insurance of at least $750,000. Primary liability insurance covers bodily injury and property damage claims resulting from accidents caused by your dump truck.

Additional Coverage Options to Consider

While primary liability insurance is the minimum legal requirement, it is advisable to consider additional coverage options to fully protect your trucking business. These may include:

Inland Marine Insurance

Inland marine insurance is designed to cover goods in transit, making it particularly relevant for dump trucks involved in hauling materials. This coverage protects against damage or loss to the cargo during transportation.

Physical Damage Insurance

This commercial trucking insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing a dump truck if it is damaged in an accident, regardless of fault. This includes both collision and comprehensive coverage.

Umbrella/Excess Coverage

This particular commercial trucking insurance provides additional liability protection beyond the limits of primary liability insurance, acting as a supplementary layer of coverage with higher limits to protect against catastrophic losses.

Non-trucking Liability Insurance

A commercial trucking insurance provides coverage for these trucks when they are not engaged in business-related activities, such as when the truck is driven for personal use. It offers protection during personal use to fill gaps in coverage that primary liability insurance might not address.

What is the Best Commercial Truck Insurance in Texas?

For Texas-based commercial truck drivers, we provide a range of insurance policies dedicated to safeguarding both you and your business. Our TRS-certified Texas truck insurance agents are committed to tailoring a policy that precisely aligns with your unique requirements while offering the best rates.

Ensuring your satisfaction is paramount, and we provide ongoing support to address any concerns you may have about your policy. Whether you’re seeking an insurance quote for a new trucking venture or aiming to refine your existing coverage, always aim for comprehensive protection. With the right insurance coverage, Texas’ roads become not just pathways of trade but also routes to success and growth.

For personalized guidance tailored to your trucking company’s needs in Texas, contact us and request an INSTANT quote. We shop through 30+ carriers to get you the best commercial trucking insurance deal we find.