What are the Florida commercial vehicle insurance requirements?

According to Florida Statutes, a commercial motor vehicle engaged only in intrastate commerce meets the following criteria:

• Is used in some sort of commerce (includes not-for-profit organizations)

• Isn’t owned or operated by the government

• Uses special fuel or motor fuel on public highways

• Has a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 26,0001 pounds or more

• Has three or more axles regardless of weight

• Is used in combination of truck and trailer when GVW exceeds 26,001 pounds

• Passenger carrying vehicles used for business purposes

When registering a intrastate commercial vehicle, you need to prove you’ve met the minimum insurance requirements in Florida. Coverage must be purchased from an insurance provider licensed in Florida. You must maintain these coverages throughout the registration period, even if the vehicle isn’t being used on a regular basis.

If you fail to meet the requirements, your organization could have its driving privilege revoked and license plate surrendered for up to three years.

If you’re an interstate driver, you must adhere to financial responsibility requirements set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Insurance requirements can be complex, which is why it’s important for you to work with your insurance provider—they’ll understand the needs of your business.

At Sentry, we offer commercial vehicle insurance options, including:

• Commercial auto liability

• Physical damage insurance

• Non-trucking liability insurance

If you were in a commercial vehicle accident, here are some recommended steps to take in the aftermath of an accident:

• Make sure your vehicle is parked in a safe location, if possible

• Check on the other parties involved if it’s safe to do so

• Help the injured to the best of your abilities

• Call 911 to report the crash and any injuries

• Contact your supervisor or dispatcher

• Get the insurance information from other involved parties

• Take pictures of the crash from multiple perspectives and get contact information from other parties and witnesses

• Get the police report number and contact information for tow companies and others responsible for clean-up

If you drive a commercial vehicle—like a semi—or you employ commercial drivers, explore these recommended safety policies and accident procedures.

Yes, Florida is a no-fault state. That means the respective insurance providers of any vehicles involved in an accident will likely cover the cost of injuries and damage for their customer—no matter who was at fault.