Roderick C. Lopez | February 28, 2025 | Personal Injury
Trucks are a big part of our everyday lives. They deliver food, clothes, and other things we need. But not all trucks follow the same rules. Some trucks travel across state lines, while others stay inside one state. These two types of trucking are called interstate trucking and intrastate trucking. If you live in Laredo, TX, it’s good to know the difference. This is especially true if you drive a truck, own a trucking business, or have been in a truck accident.
What is Interstate Trucking?
Interstate trucking means moving goods or people across state lines. This means a truck starts in one state and goes to another. It can also mean a truck moves goods that are coming from or going to another country. Because these trucks travel through different states, they have to follow federal laws.
Important Facts About Interstate Trucking
Interstate trucking involves strict regulations to ensure the safety of drivers and the efficient transport of goods across state lines. For instance:
- These trucks cross state lines or country borders.
- They must follow rules from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
- Drivers need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) that meets national standards.
- Trucks have weight and safety limits set by federal law.
- Companies must have a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number to operate.
Because interstate trucking follows federal rules, truckers have to meet high safety and training standards. This helps make sure they are driving safely across long distances.
What is Intrastate Trucking?
Intrastate trucking means moving goods or people within the same state. These trucks never cross state lines. Since they don’t travel between states, they follow state laws instead of federal laws.
Important Facts About Intrastate Trucking
Since intrastate trucking operates within a single state, it follows a different set of rules that may not always align with federal regulations. For instance:
- Trucks stay within one state.
- Drivers follow state trucking laws, which may be different from federal rules.
- Some drivers still need a CDL, depending on the truck’s size and cargo.
- Weight limits and safety rules may be different from interstate trucking laws.
- Companies may not need a USDOT number unless the state requires it.
Every state has its own rules for intrastate trucking, which may or may not incorporate provisions of the federal rules. In Texas, for example, trucks that stay within the state must follow Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) rules.
How Do the Rules Differ?
The biggest difference between these two types of trucking is who makes the rules.
- Interstate trucking follows federal laws set by the FMCSA.
- Intrastate trucking follows state laws, which may not be the same as federal rules.
For example, the FMCSA says that interstate truck drivers can drive up to 11 hours after 10 hours off-duty. However, some states allow intrastate drivers to drive longer hours. This means an intrastate driver in Texas might be allowed to drive more hours than an interstate driver.
Why Does the Difference Matter?
The difference between interstate and intrastate trucking affects truck drivers, trucking companies, and accident victims. Here’s why:
- Driver requirements: Interstate truckers must follow federal rules, while intrastate drivers follow state rules.
- Accident liability: If a truck accident happens, knowing whether the truck was interstate or intrastate can help determine who is responsible.
- Insurance rules: Interstate trucking companies must carry higher insurance coverage than many intrastate truckers.
These differences can impact everything from legal responsibilities to financial costs, making it essential for those in the trucking industry and individuals involved in accidents to understand which regulations apply.
What If a Trucking Accident Happens?
If you are in an accident with a truck, it is important to know if the truck was operating interstate or intrastate. This can affect:
- Who is responsible for the accident
- What kind of insurance is available
- Which laws apply to the case
For example, if an interstate truck is involved in an accident, federal laws may apply. If it is an intrastate truck, state laws will decide how the case is handled.
Contact the Laredo Truck Accident Attorneys at Roderick C. Lopez Personal Injury Lawyers. Call Us at (956) 529-7336
Both interstate and intrastate trucking are important for moving goods. However, they follow different laws depending on where the trucks travel. If you live in Laredo, TX, understanding these differences can help you. Whether you are a truck driver, a business owner, or someone involved in a truck accident, knowing these rules can make a big difference.
If you need help after a truck accident, talking to a truck accident lawyer can help you understand your options and protect your rights. Most personal injury law firms offer a free consultation, so you have nothing to lose in reaching out.
If you were injured in an accident in Laredo, TX, and need legal help, contact our Laredo truck accident lawyers at Roderick C. Lopez Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free case review today.
We are located in Laredo, TX, proudly serving Webb County and surrounding areas. We are located in Laredo, Texas.
Roderick C. Lopez Personal Injury Lawyers
6557 Metro Court, Suite 1 Laredo, TX 78041
(956) 529-7336
