Rig Insurance Florida: Do Tow Truck Operators Need Different Insurance?

Do tow truck drivers need different insurance than standard rig insurance in Florida?

The answer is yes and no.  Tow truck owner operators need the same rig insurance as other owner operators in Florida. However, there are additional types of insurance that tow truck operators require.

Tow truck owner operators must have liability insurance, in case there is an accident where the tow truck driver is at fault. This covers damages to vehicles as well as injuries to other motorists. Individual state mandates define coverage requirements.

Like other commercial truck owner operators, tow truck business owners must have insurance for medical payments, in case they, their drivers or passengers riding in their vehicles sustain injury.

Tow truck operators must also have comprehensive coverage, in case their vehicles sustain damage from causes other than collision. Finally, they must have uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, in case another driver who lacks sufficient insurance causes an accident .

Of course, any professional owner operator or driver requires these types of rig insurance coverage in Florida. However, tow truck operators also require at least two additional types of insurance protection.

The first is garage service insurance. If damage occurs to a towing vehicle while not in active use, such as by fire or acts of vandalism, this type of insurance will cover the damage.

Tow truck owner operators also need on hook towing insurance. This insurance protects vehicles being towed in the event an accident occurs.

Due to the nature of their business, rig insurance for tow truck owner operators in Florida and their rigs can cost more. However, rates are lower for newer and more reliable vehicles and good driving records. The type of towing done may also affect rates, i.e., roadside repair versus vehicle repossession.

We know which type of insurance your towing operation requires, regardless of its emphasis, as well as how to get it at the best price. For more information on how to protect your tow truck operation, contact us.