Navigating the insurance market is not for the faint of heart.
Archer Kemp is here to help.

Things to consider

Acquiring commercial truck insurance for new drivers is challenging, and let’s be honest, expensive. Any insurance agent who tells you they have cut-rate deals for insuring new commercial truck drivers isn’t being upfront, and you should find another agent.

The plain and simple fact is, that every insurance carrier compiles decades of state and federal information about every commercially registered driver. They use this information to calculate the risk of accidents and claims. New drivers, simply due to their lack of experience behind the wheel are considerably higher risk than a driver with ten years of experience. This higher risk ultimately comes with a higher premium, till the driver has proven to be a good “risk” which takes time and experience.

When hiring a driver with little to no experience, there are several important factors to consider.

1. As mentioned, drivers new to the industry have no track record for the insurance company to review, so make sure the driver is a responsible hard-working individual.
2. Make sure the driver has no personal driving violations, as this will affect the insurance rate, or disqualify the driver entirely. It is proven that commercial drivers with a bad personal driving record, tend to make bad decisions behind the wheel of a commercial vehicle as well.
3. Assess your specific business needs for the inexperienced driver and assign the driver the easiest driving routes. A driver with little to no experience is less likely to get in an accident on the open road, than driving through the busy, narrow streets of a big city.
4. Consider the type of trailer and cargo the driver will be transporting, and the distances they will be traveling.
5. Assign the rookie driver with a veteran team driver to help the driver correct small errors before they become big mistakes.

Additional resources

In addition to insurance providers, there are other resources available to help navigate the complex world of commercial trucking. Here are some additional resources to consider:

1. Trucking associations: Many trucking associations offer resources and guidance on insurance requirements and best practices. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on industry expertise.
2. Online forums and communities: Join online forums and communities where truck drivers and industry professionals share their experiences and knowledge. These platforms can be a great source of information and advice on commercial trucking insurance.
3. FMCSA and DOT-sponsored seminars and workshops: Check for seminars and workshops specifically tailored for driving and education courses for commercial trucking.

The cost of commercial trucking insurance

The cost of insurance can vary depending on several factors, including the driver’s age and experience, the type of vehicle being operated, cargo being transported, the distance traveled, and of course driving record. While insurance premiums may be higher for new drivers, there are ways to mitigate the costs:

1. It is extremely important that drivers new to the trucking industry maintain a clean driving record: Avoid traffic violations and accidents to demonstrate your responsible driving behavior. A clean driving record can help lower insurance premiums.
2. Invest in driver training programs: Completing driver training programs and obtaining certifications can demonstrate your commitment to safety and reduce insurance costs as a “risk management” underwriting factor.
3. Opt for higher deductibles: Choosing a higher deductible can lower your insurance premiums. However, it’s important to ensure that you have enough funds set aside to cover the deductible in case of an incident.
4. Establish a good credit history: Insurance companies often consider credit history when determining premiums. Maintaining a good credit score can help lower insurance costs.
5. Work with an independent insurance broker. Archer kemp only uses independent insurance agents. Why? An independent agent and broker typically have multiple insurance carriers to chose from, and can service all of your business insurance needs.

Finding the best commercial truck insurance for new drivers is a critical step in protecting your business and ensuring peace of mind on the road. Together we can navigate the insurance maze and secure the right coverage for your needs. With the right insurance coverage in place, you can focus on building a successful career and helping your driver become seasoned experts in no time.

Contact us today for a free quote and expert guidance in finding the right coverage.