Question
Last year I obtained my CDL but I have not really driven since. I have been practicing when my husband is home but I don't plan on going with him full time until next year. I only practice in an industrial area where there is very limited traffic. It is my understanding that in order for me to practice in a "normal" traffic setting, we would have to have additional insurance coverage for me as a second driver. Is that correct? I originally thought it was OK because if you have a permit when learning to drive a car, you are still covered under insurance. I would appreciate your thoughts.
Thanks.
Fran
Answer
Fran,
You can call it "practicing" in light traffic, but in fact you are driving a commercial motor vehicle and your insurance carrier should be promptly notified.
You don't mention if your husband is leased to a motor carrier or has his own authority and policy.
If leased, the motor carrier should be contacted. If he has his own authority, the insurance agent needs to make the insurance company aware.
Different insurance companies have different positions on new drivers. Some are very clear that ALL driver MUST be reported to the company promptly. Failure to do so can have serious consequences. It would be much better to notify them now, than to have an accident and have to deal with the ramifications.
Hope this helps
Answer
Connie: Thanks for your response. I will notify the insurance company and have them put me on the policy. Since I am not an official driver at this point, I thought I would have been covered since I am still learning. We have our truck leased to a carrier but we have our own insurance - it is not through the carrier. I do not want to leave our livelihood to chance; the risk is too great.
Thanks.
Fran