insurance protection for rhode island truckers

The federal government requires certain motor carriers to obtain permission before operating trucks and/or hauling certain goods. Because of the size and weight of commercial trucks, they are capable of, and often do, a great deal of damage. The government wants to be sure the public is protected by guaranteeing funds are available to pay for such damages. Also, since most motor carriers are carrying others' goods, the government also wants to be sure funds are available to repair/replace cargo damaged during transportation.

As a part of the process of obtaining federal authority to be able to haul across state lines, the government requires certain motor carriers to provide proof of financial responsibility before they are allowed to operate. This is typically done by purchasing insurance. The federal government requires $750,000 in insurance limits at a minimum. Many insurers require $1,000,000 in limits at a minimum.

The average trucker salary in Rhode Island is $66,750 per year or $32.09 per hour. Entry level positions start at $58,500 per year while most experienced workers make up to $89,422 per year.

Source: talent.com

To become a truck driver in Rhode Island, one must first complete the necessary education and training. This includes obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) by passing written and practical exams. After certification, individuals can then search for truck driving jobs and start earning a competitive salary in the industry.

Requirements to become a truck driver in Rhode Island

To become a truck driver in Rhode Island, you need to fulfill certain education and legal requirements, including:

• Education: A high school diploma or GED is generally required.

• Driver's License: You must possess a valid Rhode Island driver's license.

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL): To operate commercial vehicles, you need to obtain a CDL. Rhode Island requires a Class A CDL for driving tractor-trailers and heavy trucks.

• Age: You must be at least 21 years old to obtain a CDL for interstate driving (crossing state lines). For intrastate driving (within Rhode Island), the minimum age is 18.

• Driving Record: A clean driving record with no serious traffic violations is usually necessary.

• Medical Certification: You must undergo a medical examination and obtain a valid medical certificate to ensure you meet the physical requirements of the job.

Source: dreambound.com

The mission of the Rhode Island Trucking Association is to enhance the motor carrier industry's image, efficiency, and productivity through promoting highway safety, providing valuable information and educational programs, and ensure that our voices are heard in legislative matters. 

The Rhode Island Trucking Association, Inc. (RITA) is a chartered, non-profit organization whose membership is made up of owner-operators, fleet owners, private and for-hire motor carriers, and allied industries, including manufacturers, dealers, service stations and suppliers.

Since 1931, RITA has represented and promoted all motor carrier interests on the state level. RITA, the only statewide trucking association, has been a member of the American Trucking Association (ATA) since 1944.

RITA represents the interests of its membership on both the local and national stages. With the support of our membership, we fight legislation detrimental to our industry and seek to develop and introduce positive initiatives that serve both trucking/transportation and the public interest.

RITA was instrumental in fighting independent contractor legislation, a transportation and warehousing tax, and, most recently, Rhode Island's truck-only tolls.