Trucking rules and regulations can get complex, and the specific rules that apply depend on whether the carrier is involved in interstate or intrastate trucking. That distinction can make a big difference if you need to file a claim after a truck accident. Not only are the regulations different, but the insurance requirements can be vastly different as well.
Keep reading to learn the main differences between interstate and intrastate trucking and why they can be important after an accident.
What’s the Difference Between Interstate vs. Intrastate Trucking?
The main difference between interstate and intrastate trucking is whether the goods being transported cross state lines or national borders. Interstate trucking involves goods that cross state lines. Carriers involved in intrastate trucking transport goods that both originate and are delivered within a single state.
Note that the distinction lies in the cargo, not the trucks. For example, consider a carrier that transports goods only within Arizona, so its trucks never cross state lines. However, if those goods arrive from another state, then the carrier is still engaged in interstate trucking because of that cargo.
Regulatory Differences Between Interstate and Intrastate Trucking
The interstate trucking industry is governed by federal regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Intrastate trucking is mostly governed by state law. This means that Arizona sets its own rules for intrastate trucking.
Some of the key regulatory differences between interstate and intrastate trucking are:
- What classifies as a commercial vehicle
- Hours-of-service regulations
- Medical certification requirements
- USDOT number and licensing requirements
Before you hit the road, make sure you are aware of the rules applicable to your operation. Some states choose to mirror the federal interstate trucking requirements in their own rules, but not always. Knowing which regulations apply can help keep you out of legal trouble and keep your carrier operating smoothly.
Licensing Requirements for Interstate and Intrastate Trucking
It is no secret that driving a big truck requires a commercial driver’s license (CDL). To qualify for a CDL to drive in interstate trucking, you must be at least 21 years old.
Intrastate truckers may be able to get a CDL at 18. This is an important distinction and determines who may qualify to drive a truck.
Insurance Requirements in the Trucking Industry
Trucking carriers are often required to carry large liability insurance policies. This is because truck accidents often result in substantial damages. However, there are significant differences between interstate and intrastate trucking.
Interstate carriers are typically required to carry liability insurance of:
- $750,000 for general freight
- $1 million for oil transport
- $5 million for transporting certain hazardous materials
Intrastate carriers, on the other hand, may have much lower minimums. Smaller commercial vehicles may be subject only to the Arizona minimum insurance coverage requirements that typical passenger vehicles must meet.
Insurance coverage can greatly affect your ability to recover compensation after an accident, so it is important to know what type of coverage the trucking company involved in your accident may be required to have.
What Should I Do After a Truck Accident?
If you have been hurt in a truck accident, you may be entitled to recover both economic damages and non-economic damages.
After a truck accident, you should:
- Call 911 to notify the police of your accident.
- Get immediate medical treatment for any injuries.
- Take photos of all the vehicles involved, as well as your injuries, if possible.
- Gather names and contact information from any witnesses.
- Avoid saying things like “I’m sorry” or anything else that could be used against you.
- Avoid giving a statement to the insurance company without legal help.
- Seek advice from an experienced personal injury lawyer.
Knowing what to do can help protect your legal rights and preserve your ability to pursue compensation.
Contact the Bullhead City Truck Accident Lawyers at AJ Law, PLC for a Free Consultation
One of the first things your lawyer can do is determine whether the carrier was engaged in interstate or intrastate trucking. The answer can have a big impact on your claim and sources of available compensation.
If you have been hurt in a truck accident, contact AJ Law, PLC to schedule a free consultation with one of our Bullhead City truck accident lawyers. Let us help protect your legal rights and secure the justice you deserve.
Reach out to AJ Law, PLC for help today. We proudly serve clients throughout the greater Phoenix area and communities across Arizona, with offices in Glendale, Bullhead City, and Tucson.
AJ Law, PLC – Phoenix 7201 N 7th St Suite B, Phoenix, AZ 85020 Open 24/7 (602) 671-2363
AJ Law, PLC – Glendale 5800 W Glenn Dr. Suite 130 Glendale, AZ 85301 Open 24/7 (602) 512-1280
AJ Law, PLC – Bullhead City 2580 AZ-95 #108, Bullhead City, AZ 86442 Open 24/7 (602) 507-9901
AJ Law, PLC – Tucson 300 N Main Ave #102, Tucson, AZ 85701 Open 24/7 (602) 512-1933
