Workers Comp for Tow Truck Drivers

Owing to the risks that tow truck drivers face, many insurance providers don’t provide workers’ compensation insurance for this industry, and those who do have very high rates. However, most, if not all, states require that employees in these occupations have full workers’ compensation policy. Even those claiming to be independent contractors must have some form of workers’ compensation that they pay for personally or via their employer.

Besides workers’ compensation, there are a few other legal recovery options that tow truck drivers can pursue if injured in an auto accident caused by a negligent party, including:

At-fault driver’s insurance

This is a liability claim that the injured party can file against the at-fault driver’s insurer. For the claim to be successful, you must prove that the other motorist was reckless or negligent and responsible for the accident that resulted in injury. Some of the common signs of negligence include ignoring traffic lights or road signs, speeding, driving while intoxicated, and so on.

Tow truck injuries can be devastating, so most states allow the injured party to pursue both workers’ comp. and injury claims for additional financial losses and pain and suffering against the negligent party. That said, workers’ comp. is usually entitled to a reimbursement and/or set-off for benefits paid if you get duplicative benefits, though this depends on your state.

Your employer’s insurance

If the negligent motorist does not have insurance or has a limited policy, the injured tow truck driver may file a claim against his/her truck company employer’s insurance. Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to carry a minimum of $750,000 in liability insurance. If successful, the compensation can help to pay for medical bills and lost wages.

Final note

Generally, workers’ compensation covers all employees who are injured on the job. Most truck drivers, including those considered independent contractors are entitled to workers’ compensation, but can pursue the other types of compensation depending on the severity of the accident and other factors.

Get a Workers Comp for Tow Truck Drivers Quote

At Brookhurst Insurance, our agents are experienced in commercial auto insurance products. We would be happy to discuss customized plans for your towing business to be insured properly. This can give you some peace of mind to run normal day-to-day operations without the need to worry about accidents beyond your control. Request a quote online or call 818.465.7860 to speak with a commercial auto insurance agent today!