What Insurance Do Saltwater Haulers Need? (Full Coverage Breakdown)
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Saltwater hauling is a vital part of oil and gas operations, transporting produced water from well sites to disposal or treatment facilities. The nature of this work exposes contractors to environmental, vehicular, and operational risks. Having comprehensive insurance coverage is not just smart—it’s often required by operators before awarding contracts.
Every saltwater hauler needs robust commercial auto insurance to cover:
Accidents and collisions
Liability for injuries or property damage caused by your trucks
Coverage for specialized tanker trucks and vacuum units
Operators typically require proof of commercial auto insurance before contractors can access job sites. Maintaining a strong driving record can also help reduce premiums. For safety best practices and vehicle regulations, refer to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
General liability insurance protects haulers from third-party claims such as bodily injury or property damage resulting from operational activities. This coverage is essential for:
On-site incidents at well locations or disposal facilities
Damage to equipment or property of subcontractors or clients
Legal defense costs in case of a claim
A solid general liability policy provides peace of mind and credibility when bidding on contracts.
Saltwater hauling involves moving potentially hazardous fluids, which creates environmental exposure. Pollution and environmental liability insurance covers:
Spills or leaks during transport
Soil and water contamination
Cleanup and regulatory fines
Environmental liability is a must-have, as even small spills can result in expensive cleanup and lawsuits. Contractors operating in sensitive regions may be required to carry higher coverage limits.
Drivers and support staff face hazards such as vehicle accidents, slips, or exposure to chemicals. Workers’ compensation insurance covers:
Medical treatment and rehabilitation for injuries
Lost wages for employees
Legal liability for work-related injuries
Maintaining workers’ comp coverage is often a regulatory requirement and demonstrates a commitment to employee safety.
5. Equipment & Cargo Insurance
Specialized tanker trucks, pumps, and hoses are expensive assets. Equipment insurance protects against:
Theft, damage, or breakdown of vehicles and machinery
Loss of cargo during transport
Bundling equipment and commercial auto policies with the same carrier can sometimes reduce overall costs.
Partner With Wexford Insurance
Navigating the insurance requirements for saltwater hauling can be complex. Wexford Insurance specializes in providing comprehensive coverage for oil and gas trucking contractors nationwide. We work with top-rated carriers to provide policies tailored to your operations, protecting your business, employees, and clients.
Request a quote from Wexford Insurance to ensure your saltwater hauling operation is fully protected and compliant with operator requirements.
