Bobtail & Non-Trucking Liability Insurance

July 30, 2025 | Insurance

If you’re a truck driver or owner-operator, your primary liability insurance only covers you while you're under dispatch. But what happens when you're off-duty — say, driving your rig to the shop, fueling up, or heading home? That’s where Bobtail and Non-Trucking Liability (NTL) insurance come in.

At Riseson Insurance , we specialize in helping truckers throughout Phoenix , Tempe , Tucson , Gilbert , Chandler , and Scottsdale stay protected both on and off the job.

Bobtail insurance covers your truck when you're driving without a trailer , and not under dispatch. For example, if you're returning from a drop-off and not currently hauling, you're "bobtailing."

Example scenario: You just delivered a load and are driving your empty tractor home — and you get into an accident. Your primary liability coverage may not apply, but bobtail insuranc e would.

Non-Trucking Liability insurance provides coverage when you’re using your truck for personal use — not under dispatch or hauling for a motor carrier. This might include driving to a restaurant, visiting family, or running errands.

Important Note: Bobtail and NTL are not the same thing — though people often confuse the two. The key difference is:

Bobtail: No trailer attached NTL: Not under dispatch (regardless of trailer attachment)

Motor carriers often require Bobtail or NTL insurance as part of your lease agreement. Without it, you may be personally responsible for damages if an accident occurs while off-duty.

Benefits include:

Protection from unexpected out-of-pocket costs Coverage during personal or non-dispatched trips Peace of mind while off the clock

Premiums for Bobtail or NTL insurance are typically affordable — usually between $25 to $50/month, depending on:

Driving history Vehicle type Operating radius Coverage limits

We’ll shop top-rated carriers to get you the best deal for your needs.

As a locally owned, independent agency , we specialize in commercial truck insurance for drivers and fleets across Arizona. Our team knows what carriers expect and how to keep you compliant, covered, and confident on the road.

We're proud to serve truckers in Tempe, Phoenix, Tucson, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Chandler — with fast quotes and personal service.

Need Bobtail or Non-Trucking Liability coverage? Call Riseson Insurance at 602-460-5470 to speak with a local agent who understands your business. We’ll walk you through your options and help you stay protected — no matter where the road takes you.

What Is Bobtail Insurance?

What Is Non-Trucking Liability (NTL) Insurance?

Why Do You Need It?

How Much Does It Cost?

Why Riseson Insurance?

Get Covered Today

  • Bobtail: No trailer attached
  • NTL: Not under dispatch (regardless of trailer attachment)
  • Protection from unexpected out-of-pocket costs
  • Coverage during personal or non-dispatched trips
  • Peace of mind while off the clock