Canadian winters are often long, and driving during these periods can prove hazardous. If you are a trucker, then you likely know the special precautions that you must take on the road. Winter should double your commitment to safe driving.
Trucking means exposing not just your truck, but also your cargo to dangers. This may include the risk of cargo damage, spoilage or contamination. Should something happen to your cargo, you might need to file a trucking insurance claim. Ensure that your insurance has the proper coverage to protect this cargo.
Trucking Cargo Insurance
Canada has a large highway system. The trucking industry plays a vital role in the national economy. To ensure your trucking company can protect your own assets and maintain consumer trust, you need trucking insurance.
Trucking insurance should protect your rig from stem to stern. However, you'll also need to protect the cargo within the trailer. Remember, the cargo you haul likely belongs to someone else. Should something happen to the cargo, you might need to compensate affected recipients and shippers. Cargo coverage can help you do this.
When selecting cargo insurance, carry coverage specific to your rig and the dangers it faces. You might need to add special elements of coverage if you carry hazardous or sensitive cargo. For example, if you drive a refrigerated truck, ensure your policy contains cargo spoilage protection.
Protecting Your Cargo on the Road
Various issues on the roadways might threaten your truck's cargo. Do what you can to keep the potential threats to a minimum.
- Drive with care. Do not drive in ways which might disturb sensitive cargo.
- Ensure you store and secure all your cargo with the utmost care. Most cargo requires special handling to reduce breakage risks. Follow all recommended procedures.
- During your stops, inspect your cargo. Make sure it hasn't shifted or broken during transport.
- Should you notice potential threats to your cargo, such as trailer damage, see if you can repair or isolate the problems.
In the event of cargo loss or damage, you should contact your trucking insurer and the affected parties immediately. You will all likely have to work together to find the most suitable ways to settle your claims.
If you need help determining coverage, let Heritage Insurance's agents guide you through the process. Contact us today to get started.