Adding drivers to a commercial auto policy
Why the driver list decides your premium, and sometimes whether you can get a policy at all, and how to run a hiring process underwriters respect.
- Underwriters ask whether you check driving records and keep a hiring file. A yes with paperwork behind it moves pricing, and it is also the file that defends you in a negligent hiring claim.
- Some policies limit coverage to listed drivers, or exclude a named driver. Read yours before assuming anyone can drive the truck.
- Pull a motor vehicle record before the first day and every year after, and check that the license class matches the truck.
Adding a driver means giving the carrier their name, license and driving record, and the carrier prices the policy on what it finds. On a commercial auto policy, the driver list is the most closely read page. Underwriters price it, review it at renewal, and check it after a claim. Managing it well is the least expensive risk control a business has. Contractors feel this most. See commercial auto for contractors.
What the carrier looks at
- Years of licensed driving, and experience in that class of truck
- Moving violations in the last three to five years
- At fault accidents, meaning crashes the driver caused
- DWI, reckless driving, suspensions and license status
- Age, though less than on personal policies
- For CDL drivers, medical certification status
Unlisted drivers
Most commercial policies cover permissive users to some degree. A permissive user is someone you allowed to drive who is not on the list. An unlisted driver with a bad record is exactly the situation that produces a coverage fight. Some policies contain a driver exclusion, or a schedule that limits coverage to listed drivers. Read yours before assuming anyone can drive the truck.
Build a hiring file
- Pull a motor vehicle record, the state's report of a driver's history, before the first day and every year after
- Check that the license class matches the truck
- Keep an application with work history
- Write down any road test or training
- For DOT regulated operations, keep the full driver qualification file the rules require. See which operations are DOT regulated.
Underwriters ask whether you do these things. A yes with paperwork behind it moves pricing. It is also the file that defends you in a negligent hiring claim, a lawsuit saying you should never have put that driver on the road. It is also what moves the cost factors you can actually change.
When a driver's record goes bad
Tell your agent before renewal, not after a claim. Options usually exist: a formal exclusion for that driver, a higher deductible, or moving them off driving duties. What does not work is hoping the annual review misses it.
Temporary and seasonal drivers
Harvest season and busy months bring temporary drivers. They must be added, and their records checked, on the same standard as everyone else. A short assignment does not shorten the risk.
Owner operators and 1099 drivers
If you contract with owner operators, get a certificate of insurance from each one, check the limits, and confirm whether their non trucking coverage applies while they are under your dispatch. Assumptions here are expensive. See what to check on a certificate.
We will review your list
Send us your driver roster and we will tell you what an underwriter will see. Use the commercial quote form on this page, or call our McAllen office at (956) 687 3334. Se habla español.
Common follow-up questions
Do I have to list my office staff?
List anyone who may drive a company truck or drive for work. Staff who never drive for work generally do not need to be listed, though carriers differ.
Can I exclude a family member with a bad record?
Usually yes, with a signed exclusion. It removes coverage entirely when that person drives, so make sure everyone understands it.
How often should I pull motor vehicle records?
At hire and every year. Some carriers require it in writing as a condition of the policy.
Commercial auto quote. Eight quick questions, then a licensed agent in McAllen calls you with the number.
What do you drive for work?
Pick the closest one. Your agent will sort out the details.
How many trucks?
Count every vehicle the business uses, including one you own personally.
What is the work?
Welder, landscaper, produce hauling, deliveries. A few words is enough.
Does a customer or general contractor need a certificate from you?
Many contracts ask for a one million dollar limit. If you have the requirement in writing, keep it handy for the call.
Do you have a USDOT number?
Needed for crossing state lines in a truck over 10,000 pounds. Not sure is a fine answer.
Who are we quoting?
So your agent knows who they are calling.
Where should we call you?
One call with your quote. No robocalls, no list selling.
Want a copy by email?
Optional. It means you have the numbers in writing after the call.
By pressing “Get my quote” you agree a licensed McAllen Insurance Group agent may contact you by phone, text or email at the details you provide, including by automated dialing. Consent is not required to buy. This is a request for a quote, not an application, and not an offer of coverage.
Getting your request to an agent
We have your request
An agent will call you with the quote. Have your registration and any contract requirements nearby. If you would rather not wait, call us now.
Call (956) 687 3334Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM. Se habla español.
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Gerino Alejos
Licensed insurance agent · License 3128710 · NPN 18243381
Owner of McAllen Insurance Group, an independent agency on North 10th Street in McAllen. Works with clients across Hidalgo, Cameron and Starr counties on Medicare, Marketplace health, life and auto coverage. Se habla español.