Owner-Operators Insurance
Commercial Auto Insurance
for Owner-Operators
Commercial auto (primary liability) is the most important and legally required coverage for an owner-operator. FMCSA regulations require minimum liability limits before you can activate your operating authority — and without it, one serious accident can wipe out everything you own.
Industry-Specific Insight
Why Owner-Operators Businesses Need Commercial Auto Insurance
Commercial auto (primary liability) is the most important and legally required coverage for an owner-operator. FMCSA regulations require minimum liability limits before you can activate your operating authority — and without it, one serious accident can wipe out everything you own.
Coverage Details
What Commercial Auto Insurance Covers
Key protections included in a commercial auto policy for owner-operators operations.
FAQs
Common Questions from Owner-Operators Businesses
What liability limits are required for an owner-operator?
Most general freight owner-operators need a minimum of $750,000 in primary liability. Hazmat requires $1M–$5M depending on the commodity. These are federal minimums — many shippers require more.
What's the difference between running under my own authority vs. leased on?
Under your own authority, you're fully responsible for all required coverage. Leased to a motor carrier, the carrier's policy may cover your primary liability while you're under their dispatch — but you should verify exactly what's covered.
Can't I just use my personal auto policy for a work vehicle?
If a vehicle is primarily used for business, most personal auto policies will deny claims that arise from business use. Even vehicles that are also used personally should be covered under a commercial policy if they're regularly used for work. A licensed agent can help clarify where the line is.
What is hired and non-owned auto liability?
If your employees rent vehicles while traveling for work, or drive their personal cars for business errands, your business could be liable if an accident occurs. Hired and non-owned auto (HNOA) coverage fills that gap.
Complete Coverage
Other Coverages Owner-Operators Businesses Commonly Need
A complete protection plan for owner-operators operations typically includes several complementary coverages.
Owner-Operators · Commercial Auto
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