If you own a trucking business, it’s probably not news to you that working as a trucker can be a risky job. Along with the risks to workers comes a certain level of business liability. People should expect their employers to provide a reasonably safe work environment. But what about the business end? A business liability issue can cripple a company. How can you protect your trucking business from liability?
Take All Safety Precautions
One of the best things a business can do to both protect their employees and themselves is to make safety precautions the standard operating procedure. In the case of truckers, this may mean writing guidelines into company policy that lay out how the company expects truckers to behave. This might take the form of limiting the number of hours a trucker can drive in a day or without taking a break. Or you might mandate a certain amount of hours be taken for sleeping. Of course, wearing a seatbelt should be non-negotiable. These, and other safety precautions can help truckers stay safe and protect a business from being held liable for failing to ensure worker safety.
Cover Yourself with the Right Insurance
Another important move trucking companies can make to protect themselves from liability is making sure they are covered with the right insurance. Of course, figuring out what the right insurance is can be a little tricky. In order to get the insurance that’s right for you, start by identifying what risks impact you the most. Once you know what you need to be covering, you can start looking for insurance that covers those risks. Workers compensation is pretty standard, no matter what industry you work in. According to Balsiger Insurance, on-hook coverage protects you if you are pulling another vehicle. Cargo insurance can help protect you in the event of your load being lost or damaged. As with all types of insurance, it’s important to read the policy carefully and make sure you understand exactly what is and isn’t covered.
Regular Training
Providing regular training to your drivers is another important way to protect your business. Driving simulation technology allows drivers to learn and practice practical skills in a safe, controlled environment, increasing their chances of successfully using these skills in situations that might otherwise end very poorly. If your fleet transports hazardous materials, consider training focusing on how to handle them safely. You might also consider lifestyle training that teaches truckers how to stay healthy. Depending on the training, you may be able to do it virtually or through online courses, which can make it more accessible to those on the road.
Protecting your business from liability issues is important. And fortunately, it’s not terribly difficult. Things as simple as providing regular training, making sure you’re covered by the right insurance, and emphasizing the importance of taking safety precautions are all great places to start.
Read this next for more great advice: What You Should Do When an Injury Forces You to Stop Working
