How does contributory negligence help Virginia trucking insurance?

Virginia Trucking Insurance Requirements

Insurance requirements and costs for trucking in Virginia.

Minimum Liability and Coverage

Virginia follows federal minimums: $750,000 for general freight, $1 million for hazmat. Virginia is one of only four states using contributory negligence — if a plaintiff is even 1% at fault, they generally cannot recover. This strongly favors defendants and helps moderate insurance premiums compared to comparative fault states. However, Virginia is unique in not requiring auto liability insurance (the Uninsured Motor Vehicle Fee allows operating without insurance for a $500 annual fee) — this does NOT apply to commercial vehicles, which must carry insurance. Total annual insurance runs $10,000-$18,000. Primary liability averages $7,500-$13,000. Workers' comp is required for employers with three or more employees — premiums average $8-$13 per $100 of payroll.

FAQs — Virginia Trucking Insurance

Virginia is one of only four states using contributory negligence — if a plaintiff is even 1% at fault, they generally can't recover. This strongly favors trucking companies in liability claims and helps moderate insurance premiums. Primary liability averages $7,500-$13,000 — competitive for the Mid-Atlantic region.