Do I Need Insurance If I Drive a Snowplow?

In most locations, snowplows are only needed for a few months of the year. Considering that, you might not stop to think about the types of risks that could happen when you are out plowing snow.

You or one of your drivers could hit a mailbox, building, or some other object that is hidden in the snow. A driver could also hit a home, building, or another car. Snowplow drivers work in slippery conditions, and they could also hit a person and injure or kill them. In all these instances, your company could be liable for the damages.

Whether you are self-employed as a snowplow driver or your drive a truck for someone else’s company, snowplowing is a business.

The basic insurance coverages for the snowplow industry are general liability insurance and commercial auto insurance, much like any other business.

General liability insurance is the most common type of insurance for snowplow drivers. This type of coverage protects against claims against bodily injury, property damage, or other accidents you may be responsible for.

When you enter into a contract with clients to remove snow, the contract may require you to have general liability insurance in force, and they will likely ask you to provide proof of it. If you fail to keep a general liability insurance policy in force, you will have to pay out of your pocket for any damages you cause. You could also be sued for breaching your contract.

Commercial auto insurance coverage is another type of insurance you may choose. It covers liability and physical damage for your trucks, snowplows, and other commercial vehicles. In many states, you can also get comprehensive insurance coverage which covers your vehicles for things like fire, theft, hail, or glass breakage during the off-season.

If you are more than a one-person operation and you hire employees, you may also need to get workers’ compensation insurance. Each state sets up its own regulations for workers’ compensation insurance, and it’s important to know the laws and abide by them. Workers’ compensation covers claims for medical payments if one of your drivers gets hurt while on the job.

What is the cost of snowplow insurance? It varies depending on your location, claims history, coverage needs, and the number of vehicles and employees. Commercial insurers will also consider the driving records of all drivers in determining your premium.