The gap this fills
When you're leased to a motor carrier, that carrier's liability policy generally covers you while you're under dispatch — hauling their load, doing their work.
The moment you're not under dispatch — driving home, running to the shop, heading out on a personal errand — that coverage typically stops. That's the gap.
Bobtail insurance
Traditionally, bobtail refers to coverage while you're driving the tractor without a trailer attached. The classic scenario: you've dropped the trailer and you're driving the bare tractor.
Non-trucking liability (NTL)
Non-trucking liability is the broader and more common modern form. It covers liability while you're operating the truck for non-business use — not under dispatch — whether or not a trailer is attached.
The practical difference: bobtail keys on whether a trailer is attached. Non-trucking liability keys on whether you're under dispatch. NTL is what most owner-operators actually need, and the terms get used interchangeably even though they aren't identical.
What neither one covers
This is where people get caught out. Non-trucking liability is liability only — it does not cover:
- Damage to your own truck — that's physical damage coverage.
- Cargo — that's motor truck cargo.
- Anything while under dispatch — that's the motor carrier's policy, and if it isn't, you have a much bigger problem.
Who needs it
- Owner-operators leased to a motor carrier — this is the primary audience, and many carriers require it in the lease agreement.
- Anyone who drives the truck off-dispatch at all — even just home and back.
If you run under your own authority instead of leasing on, your own commercial auto liability policy is generally handling this — and NTL usually isn't the right product for you. That distinction matters, and it's worth a conversation rather than a guess.
The cheapest mistake to avoid
Non-trucking liability is typically one of the least expensive coverages on a trucking policy — and one of the most commonly missing. If you're leased on and you've never confirmed you have it, that's worth a five-minute phone call today.
Common questions
What is the difference between bobtail and non-trucking liability?
Bobtail traditionally covers you while driving the tractor without a trailer attached. Non-trucking liability covers you while operating the truck not under dispatch, whether or not a trailer is attached. Non-trucking liability is the broader and more common coverage.
Do I need non-trucking liability if I have my own authority?
Usually not. Non-trucking liability is designed for owner-operators leased to a motor carrier. If you run under your own authority, your commercial auto liability policy generally covers your operations.
Does non-trucking liability cover damage to my truck?
No. Non-trucking liability is liability coverage only. Damage to your own truck requires physical damage coverage, and freight requires motor truck cargo coverage.
Not sure what you need?
Tell us how you run and we'll shop it across our carriers — or just ask a question. No forms required.