What is Highway and Street?
Highway and street insurance is a set of policies and endorsements designed to protect organizations that build, repair, maintain, or operate public roadways and related infrastructure. Coverage often focuses on third‑party liability for bodily injury and property damage, commercial auto exposure for vehicles working on or near roads, and property or equipment coverage for tools and machinery used on job sites.
Who needs it
Typical buyers include municipal transportation departments, road contractors, paving and resurfacing crews, utility contractors, and companies that perform roadside maintenance. Smaller operators, special districts, and event organizers conducting work that affects public roadways also commonly seek this protection. Many contractors combine general liability, workers’ compensation, and commercial auto policies to address their total exposure.
What it typically covers
Coverage often includes commercial general liability for third‑party injury and property damage, commercial auto coverage for work trucks and haulers, and equipment coverage for heavy machinery. Some programs offer participant accident or event liability options when temporary traffic control or public events create additional risk. Risk management considerations like signage, flagging, and traffic control plans are frequently required by underwriters.
For contractors looking for specialized solutions, carriers may coordinate broader offerings such as General Liability Insurance for Street and Road Contractors or tailored packages described in Street and Road Contractors Insurance.
Common exclusions or limitations
Standard exclusions can include intentional acts, pollution that isn’t specifically endorsed, damage to the insured’s own equipment unless scheduled, and some professional liability exposures. Many policies limit coverage for work performed on bridges, tunnels, or under waterways without additional endorsements. Underwriting factors and contractual obligations often determine when a bond or maintenance guarantee is required; see examples like Street and Road Maintenance Bond for related compliance tools.
Factors that influence cost
Premiums reflect claims history, fleet size and driver records, type and value of equipment, project scope, traffic control measures, and the amount of subcontracting. Operational hazards such as night work, high‑speed traffic exposure, and working near utilities or steep terrain raise rates. Insurers also consider risk mitigation—safety programs, training, and maintenance records—when setting terms.
Proof of insurance & compliance
Agencies and prime contractors commonly require certificates of insurance, additional insured endorsements, and evidence of commercial auto and workers’ compensation coverage. Some public contracts also demand maintenance bonds or performance bonds to secure long‑term roadway obligations.
How to get a quote
Gather details on operations, project types, payroll and payroll classifications, a list of owned and leased equipment, and recent loss runs. Compare program features for limits, deductibles, and specific endorsements like pollution or hired/non‑owned auto. If you’re unsure which coverages match your needs, talk to your agent who can help assemble the right package and obtain competitive proposals.
Risk scenario example: a paving crew’s roller accidentally damages a parked vehicle—commercial auto and general liability coverages handle third‑party claims and related property damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do standard general liability policies cover roadwork claims?
General liability often covers third‑party bodily injury and property damage, but many roadwork exposures require additional endorsements or commercial auto and equipment coverage. Check policy declarations and exclusions.
Is a maintenance bond the same as insurance?
No. A maintenance bond is a surety guaranteeing work performance or repairs, while insurance pays covered claims. Both can be required by public agencies for compliance.
What documentation do agencies typically request from contractors?
Authorities usually request certificates of insurance, additional insured endorsements, proof of commercial auto and workers’ compensation, and sometimes performance or maintenance bonds.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.