Commercial Truck Insurance: Top Issues Facing Drivers in Illinois

Truck driving is a huge business. It has been projected that the number of commercial vehicle drivers will hit 77,000 in Illinois by the year 2024 for heavy operators and 49,941 drivers for light duty operators. While the industry is growing, so are the issues that drivers face. Commercial truck insurance in Illinois can help combat some of these issues. If you’re interested in knowing what drivers need to be aware of and how commercial truck insurance may help, read on.

Driver Shortage

There are roughly 80,000 fewer drivers than there are jobs at the current time, according to the American Trucking Association. While this may seem ideal, it translates into longer run times for those with employment, and for heavier loads as there is no one to pick up the slack. Truckers insurance can be one way to keep yourself covered should these longer run times equate into potential problems.

Lack of Consistent Parking

One other commonly not thought of problem is the lack of consistent parking for the trucking industry. Without good parking, drivers may park illegal or even may find themselves violating federal hours of service rules.

Operational Costs

One of the issues facing those who drive their own vehicles also face problems with the ever-rising cost of fuel, maintenance, and other operational costs. It can lead to lowered profits. Owner operator insurance should be looked at on a regular basis for the best in cost as well as keeping you fully covered. Underinsuring for the sake of saving money may come back to bite drivers when they need coverage the most.

Driver Safety Issues

At first glance, the money offered to truck drivers seems more than adequate. However, one must take into account that there are many nights away from home, long hours driving, and the risk they take being out on the road at all hours of the day and night. To help combat this, there are new Hours of Service rules that passed in 2020 for all truck drivers. In these rules, it imposed a 60/70 hour limit, which means a driver “may not drive after 60/70 hours on duty in 7/8 consecutive days.” Those hours can restart in a 7/8 new consecutive day cycle after 34+ hours off duty.

Supply Chain Problems

Post-pandemic, the world has seen issue after issue with supply chain disruptions.  Coupled with the shortages and diesel costs, it has led to a volatile time for the trucking industry. Supply issues mean periods of less work followed by a “catch-up” time of logistics trying to get shipments out as quickly as possible. In these type of situations, it may mean higher stress, unstable paychecks, and uncertain times for routes and shipments.

Retention Struggles

With the shortage of drivers, the unstable supply chain, and the inflation on gas and other truck driver payables, there is a looming lack of driver retention. Long shifts, more time away from family, and decreasing pay/benefits are causing drivers to seek employment at more stable businesses during this time of volatility. Retention issues can make for more strain and more reliance on the drivers that choose to stay with a company, making them carry the load.

If you’re looking to understand bobtail insurance, rig insurance, or any other type of semi-truck insurance, we’re here to help. We can help you lower your risk and help keep some of the stress of being a trucker to a minimum. Contact us to learn more about your trucking options and how we can keep you covered in the event of an accident with a full range of insurance options.

David Ott

David Ott