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Whether you’re running local routes around Colorado Springs or hauling long distances across the state, there are moments when you’re driving your truck outside of dispatch, and that’s where Non-Trucking Liability Insurance and Bobtail Insurance come in. These coverages are essential for owner-operators and leased drivers to stay protected when the rig isn’t being used for business purposes.
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I'm Kyle Anderson, a Colorado-based bilingual insurance agent with deep roots in the trucking and construction world. I help drivers and fleet owners secure the right coverage, including bobtail and non-trucking liability, so you can stay compliant, avoid gaps, and drive with peace of mind.
What Is Non-Trucking Liability Insurance?
Non-Trucking Liability Insurance (often abbreviated as NTL) provides coverage for personal use of your truck, times when you’re not under dispatch or performing business duties. For example:
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Driving your truck to the mechanic on a day off
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Stopping at the grocery store after dropping off a load
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Taking your rig home from the terminal
This type of insurance protects against bodily injury or property damage caused while using your truck outside of work. It’s important to note that NTL excludes any use during dispatch and any activity that could be interpreted as work-related.
What Is Bobtail Liability Insurance?
Bobtail Insurance covers liability when you’re operating your tractor without a trailer, whether or not you’re under dispatch. Common scenarios include:
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Driving from a drop-off site to your next load (without a trailer)
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Heading back to the terminal after unloading
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Returning home between jobs with no trailer attached
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Bobtail insurance is often required by motor carriers, especially if you’re leased on as an independent contractor. Unlike NTL, it may offer coverage while under dispatch, as long as you’re not hauling a trailer.
Bobtail vs. Non-Trucking Liability: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to confuse these two; even carriers sometimes use the terms interchangeably. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Tip: The best way to know what you need is to check your lease agreement or give me a call, and I’ll walk you through it.
Who Needs Bobtail & Non-Trucking Liability Insurance?
You likely need one or both of these coverages if you’re:
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An owner-operator leased to a motor carrier
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Driving under someone else’s authority
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Required to carry specific coverages by contract
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Frequently operating without a trailer
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Running personal errands in your truck
If your primary trucking policy doesn’t clearly cover these scenarios, you could face costly liability claims. That’s why I make sure you have the right policy for your operation, no more, no less.
Coverage Highlights
Both types of liability insurance typically include:
✔ Bodily Injury Liability – Covers medical expenses if you injure someone while driving off-duty
✔ Property Damage Liability – Covers damage to other vehicles, buildings, or structures
✔ Legal Costs – Helps with court fees or settlements if you’re sued for a covered accident
You can also explore bundling this with Physical Damage Insurance or Occupational Accident Insurance to create a complete protection package.
FMCSA Compliance & Lease Agreement Requirements
Motor carriers and the FMCSA may require proof of either bobtail or non-trucking liability insurance, depending on how you’re operating. I’ll help you:
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Understand your lease contract
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Meet coverage minimums
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Avoid compliance issues
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Stay protected both on and off the job
Every operation is different, and I’m here to make sure you’re never overpaying for something you don’t need or leaving yourself exposed by missing a critical policy.
Carrier Access & Trusted Partners
As part of CoWest Insurance Group, I have access to top trucking insurance carriers that many small agencies can’t offer. That means competitive rates, faster approvals, and customized coverage that fits your routes and budget.
Looking for reliable non-trucking or bobtail liability insurance companies in Colorado? I work with:
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Progressive
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National Indemnity
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Berkshire Hathaway
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AmTrust
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Great West
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And more
This holistic approach keeps your operations compliant, competitive, and covered from every angle.
Why Colorado Truckers Choose Me
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Over 20 years in trucking, construction, and small business
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8+ years with CoWest Insurance, serving all of Colorado
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Independent agency access to multiple carriers
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Deep experience with lease agreements & FMCSA compliance
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Fully bilingual (English & Spanish)
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Real advice, not a call center
Whether you're in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Castle Rock, or hauling statewide, I’m just a call or text away.
Ready to Get the Right Coverage?
Whether you’re bobtailing home or running errands off the clock, you still face risks. Let’s make sure you’re protected with the right policy, the right way.
Looking for another type of coverage? Explore all trucking insurance offerings here.