Drivers, dock workers and owner-operators
Truck drivers are commonly injured while loading, securing cargo, climbing in and out of cabs, and in highway accidents. Dock and warehouse employees face lifting and forklift exposures that are rated under different class codes.
Leased owner-operators are a gray area. Depending on the lease and state law, an owner-operator may be treated as your employee for workers comp. Many motor carriers require owner-operators to carry occupational accident or their own workers comp, and insurers will ask how those drivers are handled.
Multistate operations
When drivers are based in or regularly travel through several states, the policy needs to list those states or include other-states coverage so a claim is not left uncovered. Monopolistic states such as Ohio and Washington require separate arrangements.
Operations we commonly quote
- Long-haul and regional carriers
- Local delivery and final mile
- Dump and construction hauling
- Auto transport
- Tanker and flatbed
- Freight warehouses and docks
Trucking companies workers comp by state
Requirements and rating rules vary by state. Choose your state for the essentials, including who must carry coverage and who oversees it.
Frequently asked questions
Are owner-operators my employees for workers comp?
Sometimes. It depends on the lease terms, how much control you have over the work, and state law. Insurers and auditors look closely at this, so document the relationship and any coverage the owner-operator carries.
Does my truck insurance cover my injured driver?
Usually not. Commercial auto liability covers injuries to other people. Your own employees' work injuries are covered by workers compensation.
What is occupational accident insurance?
It is a policy owner-operators often buy to cover their own injuries when they are not covered by workers comp. It is not the same as workers comp and benefits are set by the policy.