The difference between interstate and intrastate trucking might mean little to most people. However, there is a significant distinction between the two regarding trucking regulations. At Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP,  we not only know the difference but can also use our knowledge to help if you’ve suffered an injury in an accident involving a violation of trucking rules.

The following is a look at the difference between interstate and intrastate regulations and how violations could impact your case.

The Basics

Interstate trucking refers to transporting goods or passengers across state lines, involving routes that pass through multiple states. Trucks involved in interstate commerce are subject to federal regulations set forth by agencies such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations cover several critical aspects of trucking operations, including vehicle maintenance, cargo securement, driver qualifications, and hours of service. 

The Hours of Service (HOS) rule is one of the essential regulations governing interstate trucking. The FMCSA designed the rule to reduce accidents caused by fatigue by prohibiting drivers from operating their vehicles for too many consecutive hours. Violating HOS regulations can result in severe consequences for trucking companies, including fines, penalties, and potential suspension or revocation of operating licenses.

Intrastate trucking, on the other hand, involves transporting goods or passengers within the boundaries of a single state. While the FMCSA governs some aspects of intrastate trucking, states typically establish in-state travel regulations. These regulations often align with federal standards but may have additional requirements or exceptions.

Trucking companies operating within a state must adhere to all applicable state regulations, which can vary widely from one jurisdiction to another. Failure to comply with intrastate trucking regulations can lead to consequences similar to interstate rule violations.

Rules Violations and Your Case

When trucking companies or truck drivers violate safety regulations, such as driving over hours or operating vehicles with mechanical defects, they can cause accidents, resulting in tragic deaths or catastrophic injuries.

Trucking accidents can have devastating consequences for victims, leading to significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships. Victims may pursue compensation through legal action to help cover medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

How a Skilled Lawyer Can Help

Injured parties can seek maximum compensation by hiring an attorney to file a personal injury lawsuit. An experienced Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP lawyer can help you hold all liable parties responsible for accidents caused by their negligence. Examples of negligence regarding interstate and intrastate rules violations include reckless driving, inadequate maintenance, and many others.

In a personal injury lawsuit, the victim must demonstrate that the negligent actions of the trucking company or its employees directly contributed to the accident and resulting injuries. An attorney can prove negligence by investigating and gathering critical evidence to build a compelling case for liability. This evidence may include:

• Accident reports
• Witness statements
• Medical records
• Expert testimony 
• Driver logbooks and electronic logging device data

A lawyer’s experience can help victims pursue maximum compensation for their losses and achieve a sense of justice.

Learn More By Contacting a Houston Truck Accident Lawyer at Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP

At Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP,  our truck accident attorneys attorneys will explore every possible avenue to help you get the money you deserve for a truck accident involving interstate and intrastate rules violations. Please contact us online for a free case evaluation.

Scott Armstrong

Scott Armstrong obtains remarkable results for his clients. He has successfully tried numerous cases to favorable verdicts and reached significant settlements on his clients’ behalf, recovering millions for them. Our lawyers have 25+ years of combined experience.

Scott is known for his aggressive approach to every case. He has been recognized as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers, an accolade awarded to only 2.5% of attorneys under forty and practicing for less than ten years. Houstonia Magazine, H-Texas Magazine, and others have recognized Scott as a “top lawyer” in Houston.

Get in touch with Scott Armstrong now.