Maryland Trucking Insurance Requirements

Maryland follows federal insurance minimums for interstate carriers: $750,000 for general freight and $1 million for hazmat. For intrastate carriers, the PSC requires minimum liability of $750,000. Maryland uses contributory negligence — one of only four states (plus DC) with this doctrine. Under contributory negligence, if a plaintiff is even 1% at fault, they generally cannot recover damages. This is favorable to defendants and helps moderate insurance costs somewhat. However, Maryland courts (particularly Baltimore City and Prince George's County) have developed exceptions to the rule and can still produce substantial verdicts.

Cargo insurance in Maryland typically requires $100,000-$250,000. The Port of Baltimore handles diverse cargo — containers, automobiles (the #1 US auto port), roll-on/roll-off equipment, coal, and bulk commodities. Drayage carriers need $100,000-$250,000 cargo coverage plus motor truck cargo (MTC) forms for port operations. Auto transport carriers need specialized vehicle cargo coverage. Physical damage coverage should account for dense I-95 corridor traffic. The Baltimore-Washington metro area's high traffic volume increases accident risk. Uninsured motorist coverage is important given the corridor's diverse driver population.

Maryland requires workers' compensation insurance for all employers. The Workers' Compensation Commission administers the program. Workers' comp premiums for trucking average $10-$15 per $100 of payroll. Total annual insurance for a Maryland owner-operator typically runs $11,000-$20,000. Primary liability averages $8,000-$14,000. The Baltimore-Washington corridor's traffic density and accident frequency drive costs above the national average. However, contributory negligence helps moderate liability exposure. Owner-operators need occupational accident insurance at $140-$380 per month. The Maryland Motor Truck Association provides insurance resources.