Risky Business

Five Most Common Questions at MATS

Hi Everyone, I’m finally back on track after MATS, and thought I’d share some of the more common questions we received at our booth:


Question: Where is Flo? Answer: Flo is very popular and very expensive now, she’s not here. Question:  Do I have to pay extra for this new “pet coverage” for my dog who rides with me?  Answer: No, pet coverage is automatically included in your CIS/Progressive policy, regardless of when you bought it. Question: I have a Tractor and I need Primary Liability with Unlimited Radius, but Progressive says I can’t go beyond 500 miles. Answer:  CIS/Progressive now offers Primary Liability with Unlimited Radius for Tractors on select Motor Carriers or Owner Operators as a pilot project…give CIS a call….Progressive is not writing this through their Direct division. Question: I am going on vacation (or trading in my truck for a new one and it’s gonna take a while)…can I cancel my policy and restart it so I don’t have to pay for the time I’m not using it? Answer: Don’t ever stop an insurance policy if you plan on restarting it, it kicks you out of your current lower rate and reenters you into a new, higher rate because you won’t have the “Proof of Prior” insurance discount.  You will pay much, much more, when you stop and start. Question: Am I allowed to buy my truck insurance myself instead of buying it through the company I’m contracted to (leased on with)? Answer: Yes, you are an Independent Contractor Owner Operator, no different than an electrician or plumber working for a General Contractor.  You are responsible for your own expenses.  Your Motor Carrier wants you to be successful long term…it’s called “retention”. Better coverage and better rates on your insurance gives you more control, more money in your pocket and a higher likelihood you’ll remain engaged as an Owner Operator.
Happy Easter!

Shelly Benisch, CIC                [email protected]
www.MyCISagent.com