Hey guys, Brian here. When I first started running my own trucking business, I was the only driver. No employees, no fleet—just me and my rig. I remember sitting down with my broker and asking:
“Do I really need workers’ comp or occupational accident insurance if I’m the only driver?”
It’s a good question, and it confused me at first. Here’s what I found out.
The Short Answer
If you’re an owner-operator with no employees, most states don’t legally require you to carry workers’ compensation insurance—but that doesn’t mean you should skip coverage altogether. You still need protection in case you get hurt while working.
That’s where occupational accident insurance (Occ/Acc) comes in. It’s designed specifically for independent truckers like us who aren’t covered by workers’ comp.
The Difference Between the Two
Workers’ Comp:
Required for companies with employees (rules vary by state).
Covers medical bills, lost wages, and disability after a work-related injury.
Usually more expensive but provides stronger protection.
Occupational Accident Insurance:
Optional for independent contractors and owner-operators.
Covers injuries that happen while you’re on the job (loading, unloading, driving, etc.).
Includes medical expenses, disability, and sometimes accidental death benefits.
Usually cheaper than full workers’ comp.
When I learned the difference, it made sense why many owner-operators choose Occ/Acc—it gives similar protection at a lower cost, without the strict legal requirements of workers’ comp.
Why I Chose to Get Coverage Anyway
Even though I’m my own boss, I realized I was still my business’s biggest asset. If something happened to me on the road, I’d be out of work, and the bills would keep coming.
I decided to get an occupational accident policy. It gave me peace of mind knowing that if I ever got injured while driving or loading freight, I wouldn’t be stuck with massive hospital bills or lose my income completely.
My Advice
If you’re an owner-operator or the only driver in your company, don’t assume you’re covered just because you have trucking insurance. Liability covers others—Occ/Acc covers you.
It’s not required in every state, but it’s one of the smartest investments you can make to protect yourself and your business.
Get Protected Before You Hit the Road
Want to find out what coverage fits best for you? Call 516-277-0812 or fill out the online form here: Request a Trucking Insurance Quote. The team helped me find the right balance between protection and cost—and now I never roll out without it.