Title: Navigating Uninsured Trucking Companies: What To Do When a Driver Lacks Valid Coverage
Dealing with a vehicle accident involving a commercial trucking operation can be complex, especially when the company in question appears to be uninsured or is actively avoiding responsibility. Recently, I encountered a situation where a trucking firm involved in an on-road collision did not seem to have appropriate insurance coverage at the time of the incident. Here’s a detailed overview of the situation and some recommended steps to consider.
The Incident
While traveling on the highway, my vehicle was struck by a truck merging improperly across double solid lines. The repair estimate indicates damages amounting to approximately $11,000. The truck driver provided a copy of their insurance, which I photographed for records. However, further investigation revealed troubling discrepancies.
Insurance Coverage Concerns
Upon contacting the insurance company, I was informed that the policy had been terminated two months prior to the accident date. Attempting to reach the trucking company’s manager yielded no results; he requested I call back when he’s in the office and has since been unresponsive.
A check of the Department of Transportation (DOT) database showed the company’s current active insurance was listed as Geico Marine, a policy unrelated to trucking activities. According to insights from AI tools and industry knowledge, some trucking operators attempt to temporarily circumvent mandatory minimum insurance requirements by acquiring non-trucking policies or letting their policies lapse after certain periods. This practice raises serious questions about their compliance and motives.
Meanwhile, the company reported the incident through the MCS-150 form — a registration document filed with the FMCSA — just three days after the crash, which might be an attempt to maintain some form of operational semblance.
Legal and Insurance Strategies
Given this scenario, several critical questions arise:
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Are the trucking company’s owners trying to let the issue fade away in hopes that it will be forgotten?
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Is it advisable to engage a lawyer for guidance and potentially pursue legal action right away?
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Should I send a certified letter demanding compensation?
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Or, is filing a lawsuit immediately the best course of action?
Additionally, the at-fault driver—my father-in-law—has full personal coverage, but at the time of the accident, he was working as an Uber driver. He hasn’t disclosed this to his insurer, but it’s possible he has Uber’s insurance coverage. This raises concerns about whether our personal auto policy will cover damages and whether claims might be denied due to the commercial activity at the time
