Trucks are the biggest vehicles on the road. Unfortunately, despite their size, they still travel at high speeds putting many lives and properties in danger. Because of this, truck insurance rates are significantly higher than cars. If you are a truck owner or driver and you easily obtained cheap insurance, you may soon find out that it was a bad idea. If an accident happens and your truck damaged more than what your insurance has covered, then it is up to you to make up for the remaining payments – and that would be very painful on your pocket.
To avoid this scenario, the insurance for your truck must not be cheap. More costly policies are more responsible in paying damages and injuries you caused in an accident. However, you may still reduce the rate to make it more affordable. There are several factors which you need to know and understand to help reduce truck insurance rate.
Before seeking for insurance companies, you need to make sure to keep your truck in good condition. Unlike regular auto insurance, the truck’s age does not matter to insurers. It is the truck’s capacity to carry and move cargo that is important to them. Check tires, breaks, and other safety features that may affect its performance. Trucks are also mandated to be inspected by the Department of Transportation (DOT) for safety purposes. As long as it can do its function effectively and it passed the DOT inspection, there would be no problems applying for insurance.
Next up is looking for the right insurance company. To avoid overpriced rates and conflicts with insurers, make sure that a company specializes in truck insurance. Still, remember to compare quotes from different companies so you get the best offers. If you are already dealing with a company, ask them of past clients and deals and other problems you may encounter in your insurance, and they will surely help out.
If you want to get discounted truck insurance rates, doing little things such as putting reminder stickers or safety signs behind the truck can be helpful. As a driver you may also lower premiums by having a clean driving record. If you have been with a company for five years accident-free, you will surely get great discounts. Driver’s age also affects cost of insurance. Allowable age for truck drivers is between ages 30 and 65. Beyond that the driver tends to lose his fine grip of the steering wheel, or can no longer step on brakes that quickly. Safe driving is best driving, especially if you are handling large vehicles like trucks.
