What is non-trucking liability insurance?

Non-Trucking Liability Insurance Explained

Non-trucking liability (NTL) is essential coverage for owner-operators who lease onto motor carriers. Here's what you need to know.

What NTL Covers

NTL provides liability coverage when you're using your truck for personal purposes—NOT under dispatch or available for dispatch:

• Driving home after completing a load
• Running personal errands
• Weekend personal use
• Driving to/from maintenance appointments

What NTL Does NOT Cover

• While under dispatch
• While deadheading to pick up a load
• While available and waiting for dispatch
• Any business-related use

NTL vs. Bobtail Insurance

These terms are often confused:

• Non-Trucking Liability: Covers personal use only, regardless of whether you're pulling a trailer
• Bobtail: Covers operating without a trailer, may include some business use

Who Needs NTL?

You need non-trucking liability if:

• You're leased onto a motor carrier
• The carrier's insurance only covers you while under dispatch
• You use your truck for any personal driving

Cost of NTL Coverage

• Typical premium: $400–$1,200/year
• Coverage limits: Usually $1M liability
• Deductible: Varies by policy

Important Considerations

1. Read your lease agreement to understand what the carrier covers
2. Don't assume the carrier's policy covers personal use
3. Keep logs to prove you weren't under dispatch if a claim occurs
4. Coverage gaps can result in personal liability exposure