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The Importance of
Commercial Truck Insurance in Cookeville, TN
- Let's face it - truckers in America have always been the backbone of our great country. They still are in modern times. On any given day, thousands of trucks traverse our highways and local roads, delivering goods and products on time so that businesses and consumers have what they need to live life. And while commercial trucking can be an incredibly lucrative way to make a living and put food on the table, it can also be risky and expensive.
- Whether you're the owner of a fleet, an independent trucker, or have a business that uses big rigs to transport goods, you need commercial trucking insurance to protect you and your client's investments, shield you from liability, and more.
- That's where working with a reliable truck insurance agency comes into play. Unfortunately, for many commercial truck insurance providers, serving the needs of truckers is low on the proverbial totem pole. At Independence Insurance Agency, nothing could be further from the truth.
Service Areas
The Commercial Truck
Insurance Agency in Cookeville, TN You Can Trust
Much like you pride yourself on running a successful trucking business, Independence Insurance Agency prides itself on its years of experience providing truck insurance for hardworking men and women across the country. And in our experience, insurance rates for truckers are just too high - so high, in fact, that they eat away at their bottom line, making it more difficult to run a business and make a profit. Fortunately, at Independence Insurance Agency, we provide truckers the freedom they need from astronomically high insurance rates so they can stay on the road and keep driving America forward.
As one of the most trusted commercial trucking insurance agencies in the U.S., we understand the challenges that you face daily as a trucker. We also know how important it is to protect your business. That's why we go above and beyond to find you the best-priced coverage available, whether you're an operator, own a small fleet, a large fleet, or something in between.
We Put Truckers First Because Others Don't
Truckers across the country choose to work with Independence Insurance Agency because we put their needs first before anything else. As experts in transportation insurance, we proudly offer a range of quality insurance products that are both practical and affordable for them. Our industry-leading carriers provide coverage that caters to the unique challenges faced by the trucking industry, ensuring that your business is protected at all times.
At our core, we are committed to finding the best possible price for your coverage without compromising the quality of service you deserve. The truth is, we understand how essential truckers are to the United States and take pride in making their insurance experience more streamlined and affordable.
One way we do so is by simplifying the insurance process. Our transportation specialists take the time to understand your specific needs and budget to tailor a comprehensive plan that works for you. You won't ever have to worry about cookie-cutter plans or uninterested agents when you work with our commercial trucking insurance agency. We take an educational approach to ensure that the entire big rig insurance process is quick, painless, and easy to understand. If there's something you don't understand, we're happy to take the time to explain. After all, the success and safety of your business are on the line.
Looking to the future, we are committed to providing innovative new products that cater to the ever-changing needs of truck drivers. As your one-stop shop for commercial trucking insurance, we are dedicated to your success, one policy at a time.
If you're a commercial trucker looking to ensure your rig, you can rest easy knowing that Independence Insurance Agency provides:
- Affordable Trucking Insurance Plans for Any Budget
- Exemplary Customer Service
- Seasoned Transportation Specialists Who Customize Plans to Your Needs
- A+ Carriers Across the Country
- Simple, Easy Quote and Bind Process
- Multiple Insurance Carriers Quoted to Find You the Best Rates
- Truck Insurance for New Ventures
Call us or send us a message today to learn more about the best 18-wheeler insurance options for your trucking business.
The Commercial Truck
Common Types of Big Rig Truck Insurance in Cookeville, TN
At Independence Insurance Agency, we offer several types of insurance coverage for local, intermediate, and long-haul trucking needs. Here are just a few categories of trucking insurance coverage that our agency offers.
As the foundation of your insurance policy, liability coverage is required by law in most states in the U.S. It provides coverage for damage or injuries caused to properties or other people if your 18-wheeler is responsible for the crash. Without liability coverage, it's almost impossible to drive a truck or run a trucking business without major legal consequences.
Having physical damage coverage is an essential component that shouldn't be overlooked. This insurance is responsible for covering the expenses related to repairing or replacing your truck in situations such as accidents, theft, vandalism, and other damaging events. By having this coverage, you can rest assured that your business won't be affected significantly by unexpected incidents, and you can continue running your operations smoothly even in challenging times.
For trucking companies, the goods they transport are crucial to their operations. To protect these goods from damage, loss, or theft while in transit, cargo insurance is essential. This coverage provides much-needed peace of mind for both you and your clients, allowing you to reimburse clients for any losses sustained while protecting your reputation and brand identity.
Non-Trucking Liability Insurance is designed to cover property damage or bodily injury that may occur during personal time when the driver/truck is not under dispatch. This coverage can be applied with or without a trailer and is added to a commercial policy as an endorsement.
While Independence Insurance Agency has built a reputation of excellence in serving the needs of truckers, we also offer general liability. Also known as Truckers General Liability, this coverage insures for bodily injuries or property damage that happen due to business activities that are NOT the cause of operating a truck. It covers accidents that occur in parking lots, rest stops, also while loading or unloading. General liability can also cover losses related to theft and vandalism. Most brokers and shippers will require this coverage to work with you.
Bobtail insurance is a type of coverage that is comparable to non-trucking liability, which is designed to offer protection when driving a truck without a trailer attached. This is commonly referred to as "bobtailing." With bobtail insurance, the tractor is covered at all times, even when it is not attached to a trailer, regardless of whether or not the truck is under dispatch.
Trailer interchange insurance is a must-have if you're involved in a trailer interchange agreement. This essential coverage offers protection for trailers owned by other parties that you're using under a contractual agreement. It covers damages caused by collisions, fire, theft, and vandalism, providing assurance to all parties involved.
Curious whether our commercial truck insurance agency in cityname, state offers additional coverage? The following options can be bound in your insurance policy:
- Business Interruption Insurance
- Reefer Breakdown Insurance
- Occupational Accident with Contract Liability Insurance
- Rental Reimbursement Insurance
- Underinsured or Uninsured Motorist Insurance
- Towing Insurance
- Electronics Insurance
- Much More
3 Safe Driving Tips to
Lower the Cost of Truck Insurance in Cookeville, TN
Keeping your drivers safe on the road is crucial not only for their own well-being but also for the safety of other motorists and the financial stability of your business. The Department of Labor has identified the trucking industry as one of the most hazardous sectors in the U.S. In fact, trucking and logistics fleets are known for their high injury and fatality rates. By improving how safely your truckers drive, you can help reduce expenses related to claim payouts, accidents, and insurance premium hikes.
Whether you own a large fleet or you're the owner and operator of a single rig, keep these safe driving tips in mind to help lower your insurance costs.
Implement Preventative Maintenance Plans
Ensuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.
This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.
Call NowPractice Defensive Driving
This approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.
Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:
- Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
- Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
- Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
- Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
Find Ways to Prevent Distracted Driving
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.
Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.
Call NowEnsuring the safety of your drivers begins with the safety of their vehicles. Trucks and tractor-trailers that do not receive regular maintenance, such as oil and brake pad changes, are more likely to experience breakdowns while on the road. Telematics devices provide real-time insight into engine and odometer data, including fault codes.
This information enables your mechanics to create comprehensive preventative maintenance schedules based on mileage, history of previous breakdowns, days, and more. Additionally, they can receive immediate notifications for critical fault codes. By implementing routine maintenance and proactive repair schedules, you can ensure that your vehicles are in top condition, minimizing the likelihood of breakdowns, which can help reduce the cost of trucker insurance.
Call NowThis approach aims to mitigate the risk of fatal crashes and injuries by proactively identifying and responding to potentially dangerous situations and making informed decisions while driving. By adopting defensive driving techniques, drivers can reduce their likelihood of accidents, thereby minimizing the need for expensive repairs, claim payouts, and increased insurance premiums.
Some of the easiest ways for you or your drivers to practice safe driving include:
- Be Wary of Blind Spots: Operating a reefer or tractor-trailer means driving high off of the ground, which can make visibility limited, especially in blind spots. To check your blind spot, look over your shoulder and out of your windows while changing lanes.
- Be Ready for Emergencies on the Road: It's important for drivers to be ready for unexpected situations when driving, especially during long trips. They should be equipped to handle emergencies such as poor driving conditions or big rig breakdowns.
- Use the Three-Second Rule: Truck drivers should try to maintain a three-second gap between their vehicle and the car in front of them. This means that the truck driver should reach a certain point on the road three seconds after the car in front of them has passed that same point.
- Always Use Right and Left Turn Indicators: It's important for drivers to always use their turn signals when changing lanes or exiting highways, even if they don't see any other cars around. This is not only required by law, but it also reduces the chances of accidents occurring on the road.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), distracted driving is the primary reason behind truck driver accidents. Any activity that takes a driver's attention away from the road or the steering wheel is considered distracted driving. Distractions can come in various forms, such as eating while driving or gazing at a billboard outside the window. However, the most frequent form of distracted driving is the use of cellphones, specifically texting while driving.
Assuming you or your driver's rigs are equipped with dual-facing cameras, try reviewing footage of an unsafe driving incident. Coach your drivers on ways to correct their unsafe behaviors or look up ways to do so yourself if you're the one operating the big rig. The bottom line is that when your drivers aren't distracted, they drive safer. And when they drive safer, the cost of 18-wheeler insurance in cityname, state can be reduced.
Call NowFAQs About
Independence Insurance Agency
If you're looking for a commercial trucking insurance agency for your business, chances are you have some questions - and we've got answers. Keep reading to learn more about some of the most commonly asked questions we hear from truckers like you.
Why go with a "jack of all trades" when you can work with specialists who focus exclusively on transportation insurance? We have excellent relationships with major trucking insurance carriers and, as such, can provide the best assistance and reasonable rates.
Typically, companies will look at claims that date back three years or less.
We proudly work with more than 20 carriers to provide our clients with the most advantageous options at competitive prices, catering to the needs of owner-operators and big fleets alike.
Permit filings are typically done by insurance companies on the next business day. Federal (FMCSA) filings are completed online and updated immediately, while some states may take up to three weeks to process.
Independence Insurance Agency: Committed to the Trucking Industry
There's no question about it - you've got to protect your staff, your rig, and your trucking business with insurance. But choosing the right insurance partner isn't always easy. Thankfully, with Independence Insurance Agency by your side, you can rest easy knowing you're covered no matter where the road takes you. If you're in need of a commercial truck insurance agency in Cookeville, TN that caters to truckers like you, pick up the phone and contact one of our transportation specialists today. That way, you can get back on the road with confidence tomorrow.
Latest News in Cookeville, TN
Cookeville council votes to save Christmas parade
LINDSAY PRIDE HERALD-CITIZENhttps://www.herald-citizen.com/news/local/cookeville-council-votes-to-save-christmas-parade/article_c8b0958f-fd12-5150-b588-da3c473b39a4.html
Editor's Note: This is a developing story. Check back for updates at herald-citizen.com.After a week of controversy surrounding new rules regarding the Cookeville Christmas Parade, the city council announced Thursday that they would continue the tradition of the annual event."The city of Cookeville commits for the year 2024 to continue the tradition of the Christmas parade for the greater benefit of the community, and I, myself, the mayor and the city ...
Editor's Note: This is a developing story. Check back for updates at herald-citizen.com.
After a week of controversy surrounding new rules regarding the Cookeville Christmas Parade, the city council announced Thursday that they would continue the tradition of the annual event.
"The city of Cookeville commits for the year 2024 to continue the tradition of the Christmas parade for the greater benefit of the community, and I, myself, the mayor and the city council members will nominate committee members to assist in organizing the parade," Cookeville Mayor Laurin Wheaton read from a resolution, which was added to Thursday's agenda at the start of the meeting.
"We wanted to make sure there was a Christmas Parade, and we know that there has, to be honest, been some controversy of how it was going to move forward," Wheaton continued. "At the end of the day, I think this council wanted a Christmas parade. We want something for the community. And we have come together, and we are going to try this for this year. We are just coming in for 2024. We don't know what's going to happen in 2025, but we are hopeful that we've come together as a community to have a family friendly Christmas parade for our community and for our kids."
Vice Mayor Luke Eldridge said, "Merry Christmas."
Wheaton said, "There will be some discussion. There are a lot of working parts here. We're going to see what we can do and hopefully save Christmas."
The council approved the resolution to hold the parade in a 5-0 vote. No date was announced for when the city-sponsored parade would be held.
The vote comes about a month after a group called the Cookeville Christian Christmas Parade, LLC began circulating a 12-page application form requiring Cookeville Christmas Parade participants to sign a "statement of faith." The annual parade had previously been organized through a committee with the Cookeville-Putnam County Chamber of Commerce.
Last year, that committee excluded the Upper Cumberland Pride group from participating in the parade, and the chamber president said that led to "malicious attacks" against her and the chamber, which led to the chamber officials' decision not to participate in the parade this year.
The controversy sparked by the new parade rules led to the formation of another group, Cookeville Inclusive, whose members have been in discussion this week to host an inclusive holiday parade.
"Our community has a lot to be proud of today!" Cookeville Inclusive President Sam Raper said. "We at Cookeville Inclusive are proud of our efforts to stand up for the members of our community who have no voice and who have been told they don't belong.
"We're a group of close to 800 community members from all walks of life and belief systems who are committed to togetherness and inclusion and are excited to build this community with love," she continued. "What started as a few voices raising concern turned into a beautiful movement that has led us on a path to create a lasting Foundation where we can offer support to our community.
"We took our first step yesterday to becoming a nonprofit set to provide support for inclusive and accommodating events in our community," she said. "It's our deepest wish that the City moves forward with an inclusive festive season for us ALL, and we are offering our support and services to provide a safe and welcoming environment for us to celebrate the season of giving and love together, as a community.
"This is a win for us all," she said. "And we have some amazing suggestions for the city to consider. Any inquiries can be emailed to info@cookevilleinclusive.com. This is only the beginning for us."
After Thursday's decision by the council, The River Community Church Pastor Steve Tiebout of the Cookeville Christian Christmas Parade, LLC, said they are meeting Friday and "hopefully will release a joint statement."
Community creates all-inclusive parade after Cookeville Christmas Parade requires statement of faith
Katelyn Quisenberryhttps://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/fundraising-all-inclusive-cookeville-christmas-parade/
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — The 2024 Cookeville Christmas Parade has new organizers and anyone who wants to have a float has to sign a statement of faith.Every year, families have gathered to watch and participate in the annual Cookeville Christmas Parade hosted by the Chamber of Commerce. But this year, the Chamber backed out after a debate about control of the event. ...
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — The 2024 Cookeville Christmas Parade has new organizers and anyone who wants to have a float has to sign a statement of faith.
Every year, families have gathered to watch and participate in the annual Cookeville Christmas Parade hosted by the Chamber of Commerce. But this year, the Chamber backed out after a debate about control of the event.
“While the Chamber has been involved in the organization of the Christmas Parade in years past, we chose not to participate this year when it became evident after last year’s parade committee vote that we were not in control of certain aspects of the event,” a representative with the Cookeville Chamber of Commerce told News 2.
However, this year a new group has taken the reins. That group has required all float applicants agree to their statement of faith.
“One of my friends here at a local bakery ended up going through the application process and then once they got to the statement of faith they were shocked,” Cookeville resident Antonio Pedro explained.
“The City had nothing to do with the handoff to this group and still has nothing to do with the production or operation of the Christmas parade,” the City of Cookeville said in a statement. “The private group simply applied for a temporary street closure for a parade, as any other private group is permitted to do and as any kind of parade-type event requires.”
The private group, sponsored by local churches, outlined in their application the belief in one God, that God created marriage solely between the male and female sex and the belief that human life starts at conception.
These rules come a year after Upper Cumberland Pride (UCP) was excluded from the last Christmas parade. The UCP told News 2, in part:
“Last year UCP filled out an application for the parade and was accepted…When our representative arrived they were pulled aside after going to check in on the list and informed that due to the parade being ran through the Chamber there was a parade board who had that very week voted on whether or not we would be allowed to participate and they voted no. It was stated when asked why, that they saw it as ‘a kid/family event [and] that we might not be kid/family friendly,’…In an email the Chamber informed us that they had 4 members on the board who voted against refusing UCP but that the majority had won.”
On Monday, Oct. 21, WCTE, which is the PBS station for Central Tennessee, announced that they would not air the planned Cookeville Christmas parade. The television station said that they reached the decision in collaboration with the Upper Cumberland Broadcast Council. The decision, they said, “is in the best Station feel it would be in the best interest of the community to shift focus and utilize another opportunity by highlighting holidays in the region in a way that upholds the values of being welcoming and engaging for all viewers.”
This year, some people in Cookeville are raising money for their own all-inclusive parade after hearing some people might not be welcome at the original.
“It was overwhelming the support that we got,” GoFundMe creator, Montana Chambers, said. “[We] achieved our goal in a matter of just one day. Just one day! That’s how incredible our community is.”
“To get the Christmas parade to what it once was to where the community comes together as a community and not just a religion,” Pedro said.
“Discrimination against ANY group of people is the antithesis of what Jesus taught,” UCP said in a statement. “The Bible says to love one another, and do no harm. This is intentional harm, and unacceptable. We hope that our core mission of inclusion, equality, and love spread through the hearts and minds of those in control, and that they find clarity and peace with those they view as ‘unworthy’.”
News 2 reached out to the private parties now hosting the original parade for comment. At the time of publication, there has not been a response.