The short answer
Non-trucking liability covers you when you're leased to a motor carrier but driving off dispatch, such as heading home or running personal errands. Bobtail coverage is related but can differ: it may cover driving without a trailer even under dispatch. Most carriers require leased owner-operators to carry one or the other.
When you're leased on, the motor carrier's liability policy covers you while you're working for them. But what about when you're not? Non-trucking liability fills that gap. This page explains how it works, how it differs from bobtail and how to buy the right one.
When non-trucking liability applies
- Driving home after a delivery, without a dispatch
- Personal errands in your truck
- Taking the truck to a shop for maintenance on your own time
When it doesn't
- Under dispatch for the motor carrier (their liability applies)
- Hauling a load, even a personal one
- If you have your own authority (your primary liability should cover both)
Non-trucking vs. bobtail
| Non-trucking liability | Bobtail | |
|---|---|---|
| When it applies | Off dispatch, not in business use | Driving without a trailer; may apply under dispatch depending on the form |
| Typical buyer | Leased-on owner-operators | Leased-on owner-operators, depending on carrier requirement |
| Key question | Were you working for the carrier? | Were you pulling a trailer? |
Insurers use these terms differently. Read the policy wording, and ask your carrier which one your lease requires.
How much coverage
Carriers usually specify a limit in the lease, often $1,000,000. Match whatever your lease requires.
Coordinate with your carrier
Ask your carrier for written confirmation of when its policy applies and when it stops. Make sure your non-trucking policy starts exactly where theirs ends. See leased-on vs. own authority insurance.
Questions truckers ask
What is non-trucking liability insurance?
Liability coverage for leased-on owner-operators when driving off dispatch, not in business use for the carrier.
Is bobtail the same as non-trucking liability?
Not always. Bobtail may cover driving without a trailer even under dispatch. Check the policy wording.
Do I need non-trucking liability with my own authority?
Usually not. Your primary liability policy can cover both business and personal use.
Who requires non-trucking liability?
Most motor carriers require it from leased owner-operators.
Written by the FairlyCover Editorial Team. This guide explains how coverage generally works. It isn't legal or insurance advice, and your policy wording always decides what's covered. How we write and review content.
