Brian White | October 30, 2022 | Truck Accidents
In Texas, trucking companies are required by law to maintain proof of liability insurance for all of their vehicles. The amount of insurance depends on many factors, such as the type of truck, the cargo it is transporting, and whether the truck is transporting that cargo within Texas or over state lines.
If you are in a collision with one of these vehicles, you should contact an experienced truck accident attorney to ensure you recover what you are entitled to after your accident. But until then, read on to learn more about the insurance requirements for commercial trucks in Texas.
What Is the Minimum Liability Insurance for Commercial Trucks?
Liability insurance for commercial trucks is intended to cover the cost of an award to a victim if the truck is involved in an accident. The amount of coverage varies and is set by state and federal laws. Trucks that transport goods within Texas may be subject solely to state law, while trucks crossing state lines will likely be subject to state and federal laws.
The minimum liability insurance for commercial trucks weighing over 26,000 pounds and transporting household goods is at least $500,000. If the commercial vehicle weighs 26,000 pounds or less and is transporting household goods within Texas state lines, then the minimum liability insurance is currently at $300,000. However, if the truck is transporting household goods outside of state lines and the vehicle weighs 10,001 pounds or more, the FMCSA requires minimum liability coverage of $750,000.
The requirements for vehicles carrying oil are treated differently under Texas and FMCSA regulations. Texas and the FMCSA both require these trucks to maintain at least $1,000,000 in liability coverage. Trucks carrying hazardous materials must possess a minimum liability insurance of $5,000,000.
Do Commercial Truck Drivers Also Carry Insurance?
Truck drivers may be required to carry their own liability insurance, depending on their working status in relation to the trucking company. If a truck driver is an independent contractor, they may be required to obtain their own liability coverage. If the driver is an employee of the trucking company, the company likely possesses a policy that covers their drivers.
Trucking companies carry significantly larger policies than individual drivers, so you will likely be able to recover greater damages from a company.
It may not be readily apparent whether a driver is under a company’s insurance policy or under their own. Determining this aspect of your personal injury case will be easier with the help of an experienced truck accident attorney.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim after a Collision with a Commercial Vehicle
If you are in an accident with a commercial truck and wish to seek remedy from the company or the driver, you will likely pursue your claim under the theory of negligence.
It is important that you take proactive steps before filing your claim. You should seek medical attention immediately following the accident and maintain copies of all records relating to your injuries from the accident. If possible, you should call the police to ensure an official record of the accident is recorded, including photos of the scene and statements from any witnesses.
As soon as you are able to, you should call an experienced truck accident attorney who will guide you through the process of recovering the compensation you deserve. An attorney will investigate your case on your behalf to determine how to best achieve the award to which you are entitled. A lawsuit will help you recover damages for your medical bills and lost wages and possibly even for the emotional distress you have suffered due to your accident.
Contact the Houston Truck Accident Lawyers at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers For Help
For more information, contact the Houston truck accident law firm of Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers by calling (713) 500-5000.
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