The Insurance Agent Trusted by Turkish Truck Drivers in America: John Donik and Istanbul Insurance

Among the insurance agencies most frequently preferred by Turkish truck drivers in the U.S. is Istanbul Insurance, founded by John (Arsen) Donik. With years of experience in the Turkish insurance sector before moving to the United States, Donik has built a strong reputation in providing specialized insurance solutions for trucking and transportation companies.

From Turkey to the United States
Before relocating to the U.S., Donik spent nearly a decade working in the insurance sector in Turkey. During that period, he held roles in companies, focusing primarily on auto insurance claims and operations.
He moved to the United States in 2019, just months before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the global economy.
Initially planning to work as an auto insurance adjuster, Donik saw those opportunities disappear when hiring freezes began during the pandemic. Instead of stepping back, he obtained his insurance license in Florida and decided to establish his own agency. By 2021, Istanbul Insurance officially began its operations.

More Than 5,000 Clients in Five Years
According to Donik, Istanbul Insurance has issued insurance policies to more than 5,000 clients within the past five years. The company initially started by offering personal auto and home insurance policies but gradually shifted its focus toward commercial coverage—particularly in the trucking industry. Today, approximately 70 percent of the company’s portfolio consists of trucking companies. Istanbul Insurance is currently licensed in 23 states across the U.S. Donik estimates the size of the Turkish trucking community in the United States as follows:
“We estimate there are around three thousand Turkish trucking company owners or operators in the U.S. It’s a large and growing sector, and insurance is one of the most critical parts of that business.”

High Risk, High Premiums
Insurance premiums in the trucking sector are significantly higher than many other types of insurance due to the level of risk involved.
In many cases, freight brokers require trucking companies to carry at least $1 million in liability coverage before they can haul cargo.
According to Donik, insurance costs for a trucking business can represent between 17 and 20 percent of annual revenue.

The Key to Growth: Accessibility
One of the main reasons behind Istanbul Insurance’s rapid growth has been its customer-focused approach.
In its early years, the company operated seven days a week, often providing service up to 12 hours per day, ensuring fast responses to client needs.
Donik explains:
“In insurance, accessibility is everything. Many agencies operate only during regular business hours. For years, we worked from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to make sure our clients could always reach us.”

What to Consider When Purchasing Insurance
Industry experts emphasize several key factors when purchasing commercial insurance:
• Choosing sufficient coverage limits
• Providing accurate driver and vehicle information
• Ensuring company history matches insurance records
• Avoiding attempts to reduce premiums through incorrect address or driver information
According to Donik, misrepresenting information may reduce premiums temporarily but can create serious legal and financial risks later.

“Insurance Requires Patience”
For those considering a career in the insurance industry, Donik offers a clear warning: patience is essential.
“If you open an insurance agency, you should not expect to make money in the first two years. You need to build relationships, develop a network, and earn clients’ trust.”
Today, Istanbul Insurance continues to expand its presence, playing an increasingly important role in serving the insurance needs of Turkish entrepreneurs operating in America’s rapidly growing trucking industry.