Common Insurance Claims Filed by Saltwater Haulers And How to Avoid Them
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Saltwater (produced water) haulers operate in one of the most hazardous segments of the oilfield. Produced water contains a mix of salts, hydrocarbons, metals, and chemicals, creating serious exposure risks during transport. The U.S. Geological Survey confirms that produced water is chemically complex and spills can contaminate soil and water through leaks or handling mistakes.
In regions like the Permian Basin, operators generate four to six barrels of produced water for every barrel of oil, which increases hauling volume and risk.
Because of these dangers, saltwater haulers frequently encounter several types of insurance claims. Below are the most common, and how to avoid them.
1. Spill & Environmental Damage Claims
Produced water spills result in some of the costliest claims for haulers. Even non‑oil spills can lead to environmental contamination and regulatory action.
A 2025 hazmat truck incident demonstrated how roadway spills can kill wildlife, contaminate waterways, and trigger large‑scale emergency cleanups.
How to avoid:
Inspect hoses, valves, and tank integrity daily
Implement spill‑prevention training
Document loading/unloading procedures
Maintain emergency spill‑response kits
2. Commercial Auto Accident Claims
Saltwater haulers often drive long rural routes to SWDs, increasing risk of collisions, rollovers, and cargo‑related accidents. Heavy loads + poor road conditions = higher claim severity.
How to avoid:
Require defensive‑driving and tanker‑specific training
Enforce rest policies to prevent driver fatigue
Conduct regular brake and tire inspections
3. Workers’ Compensation Claims
Drivers face injury risks during hose connections, slip‑and‑fall incidents at saltwater disposal wells, and exposure to hazardous liquids.
How to avoid:
Provide PPE and produced‑water handling training
Enforce 3‑point contact rules
Improve lighting and anti‑slip surfaces on trucks
Conduct weekly safety meetings
4. Equipment & Cargo Damage Claims
Failed hoses, pump breakdowns, and tank damage can halt operations and trigger insurance claims.
How to avoid:
Follow preventive maintenance schedules
Replace worn hoses proactively
Conduct pre‑trip and post‑trip inspections
Log all maintenance for insurance underwriting
Protect Your Saltwater Hauling Business With Wexford Insurance
Saltwater haulers face unique risks, but the right insurance program can protect your business from costly claims. Wexford Insurance specialises in oilfield trucking coverage nationwide and can secure:
Pollution Liability
Umbrella/Excess Liability
👉 Request your oilfield insurance quote from Wexford Insurance today and stay protected on every haul.
