Lehigh Valley Trucking Insurance

Protecting Your Trucking Company in Lehigh Valley

Lehigh Valley, PA, encompasses several cities, including Easton, Allentown and Bethlehem. It's home to nearly 375,000 residents from various backgrounds, including Italian, English, Puerto Rican and Irish ancestry. Over 90% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and the majority work in health care, administrative support or management positions. While trucking may not be the number one occupation in Lehigh Valley, it's still important for local companies to consider Lehigh Valley trucking insurance, as the climate poses risks.

June is the rainy season in Lehigh Valley, with an average of 3.8 inches. The area also sees its fair share of snow, particularly in January, when the average is 9.2 inches. The occasional blizzard poses some danger, but floods, hail and thunderstorms are the true hazards. Fog also poses a threat to drivers due to the decreased visibility.

Most employed Lehigh Valley residents commute to work. The average drive is approximately 24 minutes one way, which is slightly below the national average. Unfortunately, this area also sees a high number of roadway fatalities — 2.4 times the national county average, in fact. Total crashes are also exceptionally high, with nearly five times the average number of crashes compared to the state of Pennsylvania.

Examining Factors That Impact Lehigh Valley Trucking Insurance

Commercial trucking insurance is essential to protect the company from liability in the event of an accident. A single accident can lead to a variety of costs:

• Third-party medical bills
• Commercial vehicle repair
• Third-party property repair and replacement

You also have to worry about the state of your cargo. A collision can destroy thousands of dollars of goods, for which your customers will expect compensation. Paying out on all these costs can hamper a business; the right insurance policy can save you money and stress.

What can you expect to pay for trucking insurance in Lehigh Valley? You can get a policy in Pennsylvania for $12,247 to $17,631 a year. Insurers decide on premiums based on risk, with clients at a higher risk of filing a claim paying more.

One of the most important factors impacting your premiums is your location. The climate, crime rate, accident rate and cost of living all vary by location, and they individually affect the cost of insuring your truck.

The state of your equipment also plays a role. The age and condition of your trucks affect not only their worth but also their performance. While newer vehicles may have a higher value and, therefore, be more expensive to replace, they're also less likely to break down. Newer models also have improved safety features, which can reduce the risk of injury and accident.

Your company's track record on the road is the third major factor in determining premium cost. If you have a history of accidents, your premium will be higher, as the chances the insurer will have to pay out are higher.

Choosing the Right Lehigh Valley Trucking Insurance Policy

It's important to compare quotes when looking for a trucking insurance policy. A broker can assist with this task, as these professionals typically work with a wide variety of insurers. As you pursue your options, keep an eye on coverage as well as price. Don't be afraid to ask about customization if you have particular concerns. For instance, you may need more cargo coverage than the standard policy offers.

Additionally, look at the deductible. Lower premiums may mean a smaller monthly expense, but if the deductible is high, you may have to pay more out of pocket.