Insuring Independent Contractors in Commercial Transport: The Right Coverage for a Mobile Workforce

The commercial auto industry thrives on independent contractors. According to the American Trucking Association (ATA), more than 350,000 truckers opt for the independent contractor model, drawn by its flexibility and financial potential. While independent contractors enjoy the autonomy of running their own businesses, their insurance needs differ significantly from traditional employees. Motor carriers and fleet owners require specialized coverage to protect independent contractors and shield their businesses from liability risks.

Understanding Insurance for Independent Contractors

Unlike W-2 employees, independent contractors are responsible for securing their own insurance. However, their relationship with motor carriers creates additional complexities, as these contractors often drive under a company’s authority while technically operating as separate business entities.

This dynamic requires a tailored approach to coverage—one that balances protection for the contractor, the motor carrier, and regulatory requirements. DOXA, a leader in independent contractor insurance, offers industry-leading solutions, including occupational accident insurance, contingent liability insurance, and workers’ compensation.

1. Occupational Accident Insurance: On-the-Job Protection for Independent Contractors

Occupational accident insurance (OAI) covers injuries that independent contractors sustain while working. Since independent contractors aren’t eligible for traditional workers’ compensation, this insurance helps fill the gap, offering financial protection for medical expenses, disability, and accidental death.

Key Features of Occupational Accident Insurance:

• Covers medical expenses, disability income, and accidental death benefits
• Offers flexible benefit limits tailored to the needs of the motor carrier and contractor
• Includes specialized coverage options such as:
  • Occupational Disease
  • Cumulative Trauma
  • Hernia and Hemorrhoid Benefits
  • Passenger Accident Coverage
  • Scheduled Laborer and Non-Occupational Benefits

While occupational accident insurance (OAI) provides similar benefits to workers’ compensation—covering medical expenses, disability, and accidental death and dismemberment—the key difference is that OAI has benefit limits (typically capped at around $1 million), whereas workers’ compensation provides statutory, uncapped benefits. This makes OAI a more cost-effective alternative for motor carriers, as the cost can often be passed down to the independent contractor rather than being absorbed by the motor carrier.

2. Contingent Liability Insurance: Protecting Motor Carriers from Reclassification Risks

Independent contractor status has become a legal battleground in recent years, with regulators scrutinizing whether self-employed drivers should actually be classified as employees. If an independent contractor challenges their classification and wins, a motor carrier could be forced to pay retroactive wages, benefits, and workers’ compensation costs.

Contingent liability insurance provides:

• Legal defense coverage if a motor carrier faces a worker misclassification lawsuit
• Workers’-compensation-equivalent benefits in case an independent contractor is deemed an employee
• Flexible payment structures with some policies offering benefits on a reimbursement basis, while others offer first-dollar coverage

For motor carriers, contingent liability insurance is a crucial risk management tool that helps safeguard their business from expensive reclassification claims.

3. Workers’ Compensation: When Employee Drivers Need Coverage

While independent contractors typically aren’t covered under workers’ compensation, certain situations require statutory workers’ comp coverage. DOXA provides solutions for both motor carriers and independent contractors who hire employee drivers.

Key Independent Contractor Workers’ Compensation Options:

• Motor Carrier Workers’ Compensation: Covers W-2 employee drivers working under a motor carrier
• Fleet Driver Workers’ Compensation: Covers employee drivers working for an independent contractor who also carries occupational accident insurance

“Occupational accident insurance, contingent liability insurance, and workers’ compensation are essential safeguards for motor carriers,” says Mendy Cox, Senior Workers’ Compensation Broker at DOXA. “They not only protect businesses from unexpected costs but also ensure that drivers and employees have the coverage they need. Creating a safer, more responsible work environment ultimately strengthens trust and reliability across the industry.”

Why DOXA?

DOXA partners with market-leading carriers to provide independent contractors and motor carriers with comprehensive, cost-effective, and compliant insurance solutions.

With deep industry knowledge and tailored coverage options, DOXA’s transportation and workers’ compensation expertise ensure that everyone stays protected—allowing industry stakeholders to focus on keeping the supply chain running.

Contact us today to learn how we can help safeguard your business and keep your drivers on the road.