The pickup with a straight or V blade is the workhorse of residential and light commercial plowing. If the truck plows for money, it needs commercial auto coverage, and the plow itself needs to be accounted for.
How the Truck Is Insured
Paid plowing is commercial use. Your auto policy needs to reflect that, whether through a commercial policy or, where an insurer allows, business use declared on an existing policy. See plow truck insurance and does personal auto insurance cover plowing.
How the Plow Is Insured
Options vary. Some auto policies cover a mounted, declared plow as part of the vehicle. Coverage when the blade is detached in the off season may be different, and some contractors schedule the blade on an equipment policy for year round protection against theft. Tell your broker the make, model and value of the blade and mount.
Weight and Modifications
Heavy blades on half ton trucks can exceed front axle ratings, and modifications like ballast, lighting and spreader mounts should be disclosed. Overloaded or undisclosed modifications can complicate a claim.
Related Coverage
The truck policy does not cover a customer's fall on the driveway you cleared. That needs general liability. See residential snow plow contractors and owner operators.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to tell my insurer I put a plow on my pickup?
Yes. The plow is a modification and paid plowing is commercial use. Both should be disclosed.
Is my plow blade covered if it is stolen from my yard in summer?
Possibly not under the auto policy. Many contractors add the blade to an equipment policy for year round coverage.