Overview
When you're leased to a motor carrier and running under their dispatch, their primary liability policy usually covers you. But when you're off the clock, like driving home, going to the shop or running a personal errand in your tractor, that policy may not apply.
Non-trucking liability (NTL) and bobtail coverage fill that gap. Most motor carriers require leased owner-operators to carry one or the other before they'll sign a lease.
What It Covers
Non-Trucking Liability
Covers you when using your truck for personal, non-business purposes, not under dispatch and not hauling freight.
Bobtail Liability
Covers you when driving the tractor without a trailer. Some forms apply even when you're heading to pick up a load.
Bodily Injury & Property Damage
Pays for injuries and damage you cause to others during covered off-duty use.
Certificates for Your Carrier
We issue certificates naming your motor carrier so your lease stays in compliance.
Who Needs It
- Owner-operators leased to a motor carrier
- Drivers whose lease agreement requires NTL or bobtail
- Operators who take their tractor home
What Affects Your Price
- Driver age and MVR
- Type of tractor
- Garaging location
- Limit required by your motor carrier
Roy's tip: The definitions of 'bobtail' and 'non-trucking' vary from policy to policy. Send us your lease agreement so we can match the coverage to exactly what your motor carrier requires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need this if I have my own authority?
Usually not. If you run under your own MC number, your primary auto liability policy covers you on and off dispatch. NTL and bobtail are for owner-operators leased onto someone else's authority.
Is non-trucking liability the same as bobtail?
They overlap, and many people use the terms interchangeably, but they aren't identical. NTL typically depends on whether you're under dispatch, while bobtail typically depends on whether a trailer is attached. Your policy wording controls.
Does NTL cover damage to my own truck?
No. It's liability only. You'll want physical damage coverage for your own equipment.