Bobtail Truck Insurance (Non-Trucking Liability)
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Bobtail Insurance Coverage (also known as Non-Trucking Liability Insurance) protects owner-operators against physical damage and third-party auto liability when operating their truck without a trailer or when not hauling goods for business purposes.
In most states, Non-Trucking Liability (NTL) coverage is required by transport providers who lease to owner-operators. This coverage closes the gap left by primary liability policies, ensuring protection when a truck is used outside of dispatch or business activities.
Bobtail vs. Non-Trucking Liability
Bobtail Insurance covers your truck when operated without a trailer, whether or not it’s under dispatch. It provides liability protection when your truck is on the road between loads, after a drop-off, or on the way home.
Non-Trucking Liability Insurance (NTL), however, covers your truck when it’s being used for personal purposes—for example, running errands, going to a restaurant, or visiting family—when you are off the clock.
Bobtail Insurance is the policy for you if:
- You’re driving between loads
- You’re returning home after a drop-off
- You’re operating your truck without a trailer
Not for you if:
- You’re pulling a loaded or empty trailer (this requires different coverage)
Who Needs Non-Trucking Liability Coverage?
If you drive your truck for any personal use outside of business dispatch, you need Non-Trucking Liability coverage.
NTL is right for you if:
- You drive under someone else’s trucking authority
- You want protection from out-of-pocket expenses in case of accidents
- You use your truck for non-commercial purposes (personal travel, errands, etc.)
NTL is not for you if:
- You need coverage for the cargo you transport
What Does Bobtail Insurance Cover?
Bobtail insurance provides liability coverage for bodily injury or property damage to others when you’re driving without a trailer and not performing business operations.
Typical Bobtail Coverage Includes:
- Liability Protection: Covers third-party injury or property damage.
- Legal Expenses: Covers defense costs if you’re sued after an accident while bobtailing.
It’s important to note that bobtail insurance is different from primary liability insurance, which covers the trucker while they are under dispatch and hauling a load. Bobtail insurance fills the coverage gap when the trucker is driving the truck without a trailer.
Truckers often purchase bobtail insurance to ensure they have continuous liability coverage, even when they are not actively working for a motor carrier. This type of insurance is especially relevant for owner-operators or independent truck drivers who may use their trucks for personal reasons when not actively hauling freight.
Additionally, we can provide coverage for returns after pickups or departures from the motor carrier depending on the current situation.
What about the policyholder's damages?
Your bobtail policy covers the third-party expenses, but what about your physical damage policy?
If you’re an owner-operator operating under lease to a motor carrier that covers your primary liability, you’ll probably have to carry physical damage insurance to protect the truck if the motor carrier does not cover it.
So, in the event of an accident due to collision, overturn, theft, vandalism, or natural calamity, the company will cover damages to your truck, if you keep physical damage on your policy.
Bobtail Insurance: What Does It Cost?
Bobtail Insurance is generally less expensive than full commercial trucking insurance since it applies only when not under dispatch.
- Sample Price Quote for Bobtail Insurance (1 Truck, 1 Driver Operation located in New Jersey)
Quote:
- Total Annual Premium: $3,262
- Down Payment: $637.00
- 10 Monthly Payments of $262.50
Factors that can impact your bobtail insurance premium cost
We can assist you if you’re looking for auto liability coverage for an owner/operator. We will help you in calculating the entire cost of your bobtail insurance after reviewing the following factors:
- Age and Driving Past Record
- Vehicle Type and Model
- Number of Years you hold a CDL (Commercial Driver License)
- Leasing Agreement
- How Frequently you Drive for Personal Reasons
- Credit Score
- Limit requests
Factors that can impact your bobtail insurance premium cost
- $1 million in combined single limits,
- $50,000 in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per person,
- and $100,000 in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage per accident.
Bobtail Insurance vs Deadhead Insurance
Bobtail Insurance covers a truck when it is being operated without a trailer, regardless of whether the driver is under dispatch or not. This insurance is specifically designed to protect the truck driver in scenarios like driving home after a delivery, traveling between jobs, or heading to a maintenance facility. Essentially, it provides liability coverage for accidents that occur when the truck is “bobtailing,” or running without a trailer attached.
Deadhead Insurance, on the other hand, covers the truck when it is driving with an empty trailer. The term “deadheading” refers to the situation where a truck is returning empty after delivering a load or heading to pick up a new load. This insurance ensures that the truck and driver are protected from liability claims during these transit periods.
In summary, while bobtail insurance covers driving without a trailer, deadhead insurance covers driving with an empty trailer. Both types of insurance are crucial for providing comprehensive protection in different phases of trucking operations.
What is the Difference Between Non-Trucking Liability and Bobtail insurance?
At SCI, one of the most common questions we get from truckers—especially new owner-operators—is the difference between Non-Trucking Liability (NTL) and Bobtail Insurance. While the two are closely related and often confused, they serve distinct purposes and apply in different situations.
Non-Trucking Liability Insurance provides coverage when you’re using your truck for personal use and not under dispatch. For example, if you’re driving your truck to the grocery store, visiting family, or heading to a non-work-related appointment, NTL covers any bodily injury or property damage you may cause during those personal-use trips. It’s important to note that NTL only applies when you’re truly off the clock and not engaging in any business-related activities.
Bobtail Insurance, on the other hand, covers your truck when you’re driving without a trailer—regardless of whether you’re on personal time or traveling between loads. For instance, if you’re heading to a terminal after dropping off a load or driving to pick up your next assignment without a trailer attached, bobtail insurance steps in. This type of policy covers liability during non-dispatch operations, even if you’re engaged in some aspect of your trucking business.
Here’s a simple way to remember it:
At SCI, one of the most common questions we get from truckers—especially new owner-operators—is the difference between Non-Trucking Liability (NTL) and Bobtail Insurance. While the two are closely related and often confused, they serve distinct purposes and apply in different situations.
Non-Trucking Liability Insurance provides coverage when you’re using your truck for personal use and not under dispatch. For example, if you’re driving your truck to the grocery store, visiting family, or heading to a non-work-related appointment, NTL covers any bodily injury or property damage you may cause during those personal-use trips. It’s important to note that NTL only applies when you’re truly off the clock and not engaging in any business-related activities.
Bobtail Insurance, on the other hand, covers your truck when you’re driving without a trailer—regardless of whether you’re on personal time or traveling between loads. For instance, if you’re heading to a terminal after dropping off a load or driving to pick up your next assignment without a trailer attached, bobtail insurance steps in. This type of policy covers liability during non-dispatch operations, even if you’re engaged in some aspect of your trucking business.
Bobtail = No trailer, business-related trips without dispatch
Non-Trucking Liability = Personal use of your truck, not tied to business
At SCI, we help you figure out which policy—or combination of both—you need based on how and when you use your truck. If you’re leased onto a motor carrier, they may require one or both, and we’ll ensure you stay compliant with your lease and FMCSA regulations. Contact us today, and we’ll make sure you get the right protection without paying for coverage you don’t need.
Invest More In Your Business With SCI As Your Bobtail Insurer
At Southern Charm Insurance, we specialize in truckers’ insurance coverage tailored to your needs. From Bobtail and NTL Insurance to Physical Damage, Auto Liability, and Cargo Insurance — we offer great rates, fast claims service, and personalized support for every owner-operator.
Call us today at 828-785-1421
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