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Federal Insurance Requirements for Commercial Trucks

Michael Agruss

Written and Reviewed by Michael Agruss

  • Managing Partner and Personal Injury Lawyer at 844SeeMike.
  • Over 20 years of experience in Personal Injury.
  • Graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law: Juris Doctor, 2004.

 

Accidents involving commercial trucks occur for many reasons, not the least of which is the widespread problem of fatigue among professional truck drivers. Being as heavy as they are, trucks also require longer braking distances and control is more difficult to regain once it is lost. Of course, the likelihood of serious injury or death is far greater in accidents involving commercial trucks than accidents involving only passenger vehicles, and as a result, interstate trucks are required by federal law to carry large amounts of insurance to protect both the trucking company and driver from paying out-of-pocket for an injury claim.
The weight and classification of cargo are important factors in determining insurance requirements for interstate trucks.

Here are the minimum requirements according to Title 49, Section 387 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations:

  • Gross weight of 10,000 lbs. or more carrying non-hazardous cargo: minimum $750,000 in liability insurance to cover injuries and property damage.
  • Gross weight of 10,000 lbs. or more carrying hazardous material (HAZMAT) other than explosives: minimum $1,000,000.
  • Gross weight of 10,000 lbs. or more carrying hazardous cargo and/or explosives: minimum $5,000,000.
  • Gross weight of less than 10,000 lbs. carrying non-hazardous cargo: minimum $300,000.
  • Gross weight of less than 10,000 lbs. carrying hazardous cargo of any kind: minimum $5,000,000.

State laws regarding minimum coverage also apply throughout the country.
Minimum insurance requirements for commercial trucks are substantially higher than for smaller vehicles simply because of their greater capacity for property damage, serious injury, and death in an accident. As a result, settlements for truck accident claims are also higher, as the average truck accident is estimated to cost about $125,000. Trucking companies protect themselves with highly-skilled insurance agents and attorneys to minimize these payouts, and this is why it is imperative that you speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a commercial truck, contact 844 See Mike for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.

 

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