The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration was formed in 2000 to prevent commercial motor vehicle-related fatalities and injuries and sets regulations for truckers. However, it’s essential that truckers also follow the rules and regulations of the state in which they are operating. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about interstate trucking regulations
FMCSA Limits of Coverage
The FMCSA has minimum limits of coverage for interstate truck drivers. The limits depend on the type of freight. Truckers are required to obtain the correct insurance and show proof. The requirements are as follows:
- Non-hazardous freight moved in vehicles under 10,001 pounds
- Minimum limit: $300,000
- Non-hazardous freight in vehicles over 10,001 pounds
- Minimum limit: $750,000
- Oil moved by for-hire and private carriers
- Minimum limit: $1,000,000
- Other hazardous material moved by for-hire/private carriers
- Minimum limit: $5,000,000
Remember these are just minimum requirements. Some companies may choose to add extra protection by selecting higher limits.
Interstate vs. Intrastate
The government defines an interstate motor carrier as a vehicle used for hire that transports property on the interstate; transporting hazardous materials, substances, or waste.
Federal insurance requirements don’t bind intrastate motor carriers. They have to follow regulations set by the state in which they operate. These insurance rules may be similar to those set by FMCSA, however, some states require less or more coverage than others.
Benefits of Insurance For Interstate Truckers
Another reason to have insurance is for the protection it brings to drivers and the public. Primary liability insurance for interstate truckers covers bodily injury and property damage. These policies are designed to cover fees related to the medical bills of pedestrians who may have been injured in an accident. The insurance policies also cover the cost of repairs to damaged property.
Cargo insurance covers the items inside the truck driver’s trailer. This isn’t insurance that is required by the FMCSA but many companies won’t work with drivers that don’t have cargo insurance.
General liability insurance is helpful for accidents that may happen while not on the road. This is a good option for truckers who want to include additional protection.
Bobtail insurance provides coverage when a truck is being used for purposes not related to hauling. This could include instances where the truck is being used for a driver’s personal needs or when the trailer is detached.
Feel Protected With RRL Insurance
RRL Insurance has a team of transportation experts to assist you. We’ll help you find the right insurance policies to give your business the protection it needs. Our insurance options include public auto insurance, truckers insurance, and waste hauler/recycling insurance. We also offer insurance coverage for construction equipment and demolition contractors.
RRL truckers insurance is the perfect option for businesses involved in interstate trucking. We’ll bring you cost-effective insurance coverage options along with risk management solutions. Our team members will ensure your truckers insurance meets industry regulations. Contact us to find out more about our comprehensive insurance options.