If you’re a trucker who operates under a lease agreement or as an owner-operator, you’ve probably heard of bobtail insurance. But what exactly is it, and do you really need it? The short answer: If you ever drive your truck without a trailer—especially off dispatch—you might be putting yourself and your finances at risk without this coverage.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!In this article, we’ll explain what bobtail insurance is, who needs it, and why skipping it could cost you more than you think.
What Is Bobtail Insurance?
Bobtail insurance is a type of liability coverage for truckers when they are driving their tractor without a trailer, typically:
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After dropping off a load and heading home
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Driving between terminals without being dispatched
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Running errands with the tractor only
This situation is often called “bobtailing” or “deadheading.” Your motor carrier’s primary liability insurance usually only covers you when you’re under dispatch. Bobtail insurance steps in to cover you when you’re not.
Bobtail vs. Non-Trucking Liability (NTL): What’s the Difference?
Many drivers confuse bobtail insurance with non-trucking liability (NTL), but they’re not the same:
| Bobtail Insurance | Non-Trucking Liability (NTL) |
|---|---|
| Covers your truck when you’re driving without a trailer, regardless of dispatch status | Covers your truck when you’re off-duty and using it for personal use |
| Applies even if you’re on the way back from a delivery | Doesn’t cover driving for work-related purposes |
| Often required by motor carriers | Optional, but useful for personal errands |
Bottom line: Bobtail = no trailer, NTL = no work.
Who Needs Bobtail Insurance?
You may need bobtail insurance if:
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You’re an owner-operator leased to a motor carrier
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You often drive your tractor without a trailer
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Your motor carrier requires it in your lease agreement
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You’re not always under dispatch when driving
Even if you rarely bobtail, just one uncovered accident could result in personal liability for injuries, damages, or even lawsuits. Bobtail insurance protects you from that risk.
What Does Bobtail Insurance Cover?
Bobtail insurance typically covers:
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Bodily injury to others in an accident
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Property damage caused while bobtailing
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Legal defense costs if you’re sued
However, it does not cover:
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Physical damage to your own truck (you’ll need physical damage coverage for that)
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Accidents while hauling a trailer
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Personal errands unrelated to trucking (covered by NTL)
Is Bobtail Insurance Required by Law?
No federal law requires bobtail insurance, but:
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Many motor carriers require it as part of your lease agreement
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Some states or lenders may require proof of bobtail coverage
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Shippers or clients may demand proof of insurance even if you’re not under dispatch
It’s not a legal must-have, but it’s often a contractual necessity.
How Much Does Bobtail Insurance Cost?
Bobtail insurance is generally affordable, with premiums ranging from:
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$20 to $50 per month on average
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Depending on your driving history, location, and insurer
For most truckers, it’s a low-cost way to protect against high-risk liability.
What Happens If You Skip It?
Without bobtail insurance, you could be personally responsible for:
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Repairing another vehicle if you cause an accident
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Medical bills for injuries to other parties
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Legal fees if you’re sued
Even a minor accident could result in thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs.
How to Get Bobtail Insurance
You can add bobtail insurance through:
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A commercial truck insurance agent
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Your current trucking insurance provider
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Specialized insurance carriers for owner-operators
Make sure your policy clearly defines when bobtail coverage applies, and confirm there’s no overlap or gap with your motor carrier’s liability policy.
Final Word: Do You Need Bobtail Insurance?
If you ever drive your truck without a trailer and aren’t fully covered by your motor carrier’s policy, yes—you need bobtail insurance. It’s a small investment that protects against a major liability.
Don’t risk your truck, your career, or your finances over a policy that often costs less than a tank of diesel each month.