Trucking is a complicated business, and the farther a driver has to travel, the more regulations and restrictions there are to follow. This is clear in the differences in rules for interstate and intrastate drivers. Learn about the legal implications of each term and what it means for drivers, carriers, and other vehicles on the road.
The Difference Between Interstate and Intrastate Trucking
The difference between an interstate truck driver and an intrastate truck driver is fairly simple. An interstate truck driver moves goods across state lines. Conversely, an intrastate truck driver moves goods only within the state lines.
It’s important for truck drivers to understand that the distinction applies to the goods, not necessarily to the driver. There may be a driver whose truck is carrying goods to be delivered three states away, but that driver may hand those goods off to another driver before leaving the state. Even though the first driver never left the state, they’re still an interstate driver.
Why Does It Matter What Type of Trucking a Driver Is Involved In?
The distinction between interstate and intrastate trucking matters because different laws apply to drivers, trucks, and businesses using each model. In general, companies involved in interstate trucking must have operating authority from the federal government and obtain a USDOT number from the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Interstate trucking companies must also register with the Unified Carrier Registration System. This federal plan, operated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), helps educate industry participants about and enforce safety rules to prevent trucking accidents.
Intrastate drivers don’t need to worry about federal operating authorities. Instead, intrastate carriers should check with their state about specific registration and operating requirements. For example, Florida commercial vehicles must register with the Florida Department of Transportation.
A Breakdown of Interstate Vs. Intrastate Trucking Regulations
The following regulations demonstrate the differences in requirements for those engaging in interstate and intrastate trucking.
Hours of Service
FMCSA allows interstate drivers to drive a maximum of 11 hours after a period of 10 consecutive hours off duty, and drivers may not drive after 14 hours on duty. However, Florida’s Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles allows intrastate drivers to drive for a maximum of 12 hours after a 10-hour off-duty break, and they may not drive after 15 hours on duty.
According to FMCSA, interstate drivers are limited to 60 driving hours in seven consecutive days and 70 driving hours in eight consecutive days. Florida has a 70/80-hour rule for the same number of consecutive days, giving intrastate drivers 10 extra hours in that same time period.
Insurance Requirements
FMCSA requires interstate carriers to have:
- $300,000 of insurance for carrying non-hazardous materials under 10,001 pounds
- $750,000 for non-hazardous materials weighing more than 10,001 pounds
- $1 million for oil
- $5 million for hazardous materials
Florida insurance requirements for intrastate drivers are a little lower:
- $50,000 for 26,000 to 35,000 pounds
- $100,000 for 35,000 to 44,000 pounds
- $300,000 for more than 44,000 pounds
Keep in mind that these figures are for minimum coverage for truck accidents and that certain carriers may be required to have more depending on what is being hauled and where it is going.
What This Distinction Means for Trucking Accident Victims
After a truck accident, it can be challenging for victims to prove negligence on the part of the trucking carrier. An experienced attorney knows how to gather evidence about a carrier’s activities to determine which laws are applicable and whether they’ve been broken. If they have, that can constitute negligence.
If a carrier breaks the law and a driver is involved in an accident, victims may be able to hold that business responsible. A knowledgeable lawyer can make all the difference in building a solid case to prove liability and ensuring victims get the compensation they deserve.
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