Question
Are there insurance policies that will cover the personal contents of the truck for a company driver, and if so, the average cost? I am interested in coverage for high ticket items such as laptop, cell phone, and tv/vcr, as well as personal clothing, in the event of truck fire, break-in, wreck, etc. Thanks for your help.
Answer
This is a great question, but one not easily answered.
Some insurance companies provide endorsements on the Physical Damage policy for an owner-operator to purchase some personal property coverage. However, when you're a company driver that's a bit different because you don't have the Physical Damage coverage under your control.
If you are a homeowner or a renter, you should be carrying a Homeowners or Tenants policy. If you aren't...get to your local agent and get it done.
1. Advise the agent of your profession and explain that you take personal belongings with you on the road.
2. Give him/her a list of the items you normally take with you.
3. Laptops, TV, VCR and the like, provide them with a copy of the receipt.
4. With computers, it is important you have the agent verify the amount of coverage provided. Example, some homeowner policies provide up to $2500 for home computers, but only 10% of that amount for off premises. That means $250 for computers away from home. Not enough. Most policies can be endorsed to provide a higher limit for property off premises for a nominal amount.
5. Be sure to get confirmation in writing. If you are required to provide anything, do so promptly.
And finally, don't assume the vehicle owner's policy will cover your belongings. This usually is not the case.