Trucking Insurance
Occupational Accident
Accident coverage for owner-operators and independent contractors who aren’t covered by workers’ compensation.
What It Is
Occupational accident coverage pays benefits to an independent contractor, such as a leased owner-operator, who is injured on the job. It’s an alternative for people who aren’t employees and so aren’t covered by workers’ compensation. Many motor carriers require their leased owner-operators to carry it.
What It Typically Covers
- Medical expenses from an on-the-job accident, up to the policy limits
- Disability benefits while unable to work
- Accidental death and dismemberment benefits
Common Gaps to Watch For
- It isn’t workers’ compensation. Benefits are set by the policy and are usually more limited than state workers’ compensation benefits.
- Limits and benefit periods vary widely. Compare them carefully.
- Illness and some injury types may be excluded.
- It doesn’t settle classification questions. If a driver is later found to be an employee, the carrier may still face workers’ compensation obligations.
Who Usually Needs It
Owner-operators leased to a motor carrier, and carriers that work with independent contractor drivers and want them protected.
What Underwriters Consider
- The driver’s operation and lease arrangement
- Medical and disability limits selected
- The number of contractors covered, for carrier-sponsored programs
Questions to Ask
- What are the medical, disability, and death benefit limits?
- How long do disability payments last?
- What injuries or conditions are excluded?
- Does my carrier require specific limits?
- As a carrier, how does this fit with my workers’ compensation exposure?
All coverage is subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions.
Last reviewed: November 1, 2026
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Licensed in Illinois.