Understanding personal conveyance is essential for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers who must use their vehicles for personal activities while off duty. Personal conveyance does not absolve drivers or motor carriers from their responsibility to ensure the safe operation of the vehicle.
What Is Personal Conveyance?
Personal conveyance is the use of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) for personal activities while the driver is off duty. Where semitruck drivers are concerned, drivers can log this time as off duty only when they are free from work duties and responsibilities assigned by the motor carrier. Even if the CMV is loaded, it can still be used for personal conveyance, as the cargo is not being transported for the motor carrier’s commercial gain during this period.
Examples of Appropriate Uses of a CMV While Off Duty for Personal Conveyance
The following are some scenarios where using a CMV for personal conveyance while off duty is appropriate:
- Time spent traveling from a driver’s en route lodging—such as a motel or truck stop—to restaurants and entertainment facilities
- Commuting between the driver’s terminal and their residence and between work sites and their residence
- Time spent traveling to a nearby safe location to obtain required rest after loading or unloading for the required rest according to minimum off-duty periods
- Moving a CMV at the request of a safety official during the driver’s off-duty time
- Time spent traveling in a motorcoach without passengers to en route lodging (such as a motel or truck stop) or to restaurants and entertainment facilities and back to the lodging
- Time spent transporting personal property while off duty
- Authorized use of a CMV to travel home after working at an off-site location
Insurance for Personal Conveyance
When using commercial vehicles, it’s crucial to have appropriate commercial auto insurance. Depending on the vehicle type, your company may be subject to federal and state minimum liability limits.
In addition to core liability and physical damage coverage, your agent may recommend nontrucking liability and cargo insurance for semitrucks.
Contact Us
Contact Insurance Discounters of Texas in Tomball, Texas, for a personalized commercial auto insurance quote.
This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.