Last Updated on May 4, 2026 by J.E.B. Insurance Services, LLC
Don’t Let These Commercial Truck Insurance Myths Cost You Money
Your truck is the backbone of your business. But when it comes to insurance, many owner operators and trucking companies rely on outdated or incorrect commercial truck insurance myths.
Believing the wrong advice can lead to coverage gaps, denied claims, and costly downtime.
Let’s break down the most common commercial truck insurance myths—and the truth behind them.
Myth #1: If You’re on a Motor Carrier Policy, You’re Fully Covered
Fact: You’re likely NOT fully protected.
Motor carrier policies typically provide liability coverage only for owner operators under lease. That means:
- Your truck may NOT be covered for damage
- Coverage may only apply while under dispatch
- Personal use is usually excluded
To fully protect yourself, you should consider:
- Physical damage insurance
- Non-Trucking Liability Insurance
These coverages help protect you when you’re off dispatch or using your truck for non-business purposes.
Myth #2: You Need a Separate Cargo Insurance Policy
Fact: Not always.
In many cases, cargo coverage can be added as an endorsement to your existing policy.
Benefits include:
- One policy instead of multiple
- Faster claims handling
- Potential cost savings
If your truck and cargo are damaged in the same accident, dealing with one insurance provider can save time and frustration.
Myth #3: Downtime Isn’t a Big Deal
Fact: Downtime can destroy your income.
If your truck is out of service—even for a few weeks—you’re not making money.
That’s why it’s critical to ask about:
- Rental reimbursement coverage
- Downtime coverage
- Fast claims processing
Even a short disruption can impact your ability to stay profitable.
Myth #4: Canceling Insurance in the Off-Season Saves Money
Fact: It can actually cost you MORE.
If you cancel your policy completely:
- Your truck is not protected
- You lose proof of continuous coverage
- Future premiums may increase
A better option is a comprehensive-only policy, which protects against:
- Theft
- Fire
- Vandalism
- Weather damage
This keeps your truck protected while maintaining insurance history.
Myth #5: All Insurance Companies Handle State & Federal Filings
Fact: Not all do.
Some insurers:
- Don’t offer filing services
- Can’t handle certain authorities
- Avoid high-risk operations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires specific filings for many trucking operations. Make sure your insurance provider can handle these requirements properly.
Myth #6: All Truck Insurance Companies Offer 24/7 Support
Fact: Many don’t.
Some providers are only available during business hours, which can be a problem when:
- You need to file a claim after hours
- You need a certificate of insurance quickly
- You need to add or remove a vehicle
Before choosing a provider, confirm they offer responsive and accessible support when you need it most.
Get the Right Coverage—Not Just the Cheapest Policy
Understanding the truth behind these myths can save you thousands of dollars and protect your business from unnecessary risk.
At J.E.B. Insurance Services, LLC, we help owner operators and trucking companies:
- Identify coverage gaps
- Customize policies
- Lower premiums without sacrificing protection
If you operate in Florida, Georgia, Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Iowa, Illinois, or Nebraska:
👉 Get your free quote today: https://www.jebinsurance.com/free-quote/
