If you own a trucking business, things have been somewhat unpredictable throughout 2021 and heading into 2022. From supply chain issues to a nationwide truck driver shortage, it has become increasingly difficult for business owners to navigate these trucking industry trends.
While all this is going on, the question, “Is the trucking industry growing?” remains one that is front and center in the minds of business owners. The answer is a resounding, “Yes!” In fact, the trucking industry, as a whole, is more important now than ever. That is why it is so important for business owners to understand these steps they can take to protect themselves from lawsuits while also keeping their drivers and others safe on the roads.
The Trucking Industry is More Important Now than Ever
COVID-19 has had a huge impact on the way goods are moved across the country, making truck drivers and trucking companies more important to the nationwide economy than in years past. How has COVID affected the trucking industry? With rampant supply chain issues and labor shortages at major U.S. ports, the need to find alternative means of moving goods is growing. And trucking businesses are the solutions in many cases.
Unfortunately, the increased demand, skyrocketing fuel costs, the shortage of drivers, and hours of service waivers related to COVID have created additional concerns for trucking companies that may result in more dangerous driving conditions, increased safety considerations, and the possibilities of increased insurance costs.
Essential Insurance Coverage for Business Owners in the Trucking Industry
If you’re in the trucking industry, there are certain types of insurance protection you simply can’t afford to operate without. While you may seek ways to cut costs, you want to make sure you do not skip out on certain essential insurance policies, including the following.
- General Business Liability Coverage.
- Commercial Auto Insurance.
- Cargo Insurance.
Of course, these aren’t the only policies you need as a business owner. Finding the right balance of insurance protection and price can be critical with all the changes facing the trucking industry.
What Changes are Affecting Insurance Premiums in the Trucking Industry?
Increased demand for the distribution of goods by truck drivers has many drivers tackling new, unfamiliar routes. Top that off with additional hours behind the wheel thanks to relaxed hours of service requirements, and the current (and growing) driver shortage, and it is a perfect cautionary tale for insurance providers. This means increased risks and higher costs to trucking businesses, like yours. However, there are ways to mitigate the costs without sacrificing essential insurance protection for your business including a renewed focus on safety and comparing insurance costs among multiple providers.
Safety Precaution You Should Take as a Business Owner
While the government may have elected to relax hours of service standards, the standards existed for a reason. They have proven effective at reducing casualties on the road. Stick to them whenever possible for the safety of everyone. Also, consider installing GPS tracking to ensure that drivers are operating safely and even install dashboard and cargo cameras to protect your drivers from false claims against them and your cargo from theft. Finally, don’t forget to invest in quality insurance to protect your business.
The Trucking Industry: Why Working with a Trusted Insurance Agent is Key
With so many changes happening at once within the trucking industry, it is important to work with a trusted insurance agent that can help you get the protection your business needs at a price that works for your budget. After all, the trucking industry has proven to be essential throughout the pandemic and will continue to do so in the days ahead. The right insurance will help your company keep trucking regardless of roadblocks and detours along the way.
