Trucks that do not cross state lines and remain in Florida with their cargo are known as intrastate trucks, and they are subject to state rules rather than the federal regulations that affect commercial interstate trucks carrying cargo across the country and in between states.
Intrastate trucks are often owned by private companies and when these trucks are in collision, the resulting case and legal claims can be quite complex as powerful companies will often work hard with teams of attorneys in order to deflect the charges or to point fingers at other possible liable parties. If you have been injured in a truck accident in Homestead or your community, you deserve justice and fair compensation. To find out what steps you can take to ensure that you get fair compensation and are treated fairly, contact Flaxman Law Group for a free, no obligation consultation with a personal injury attorney.
What Rules and Laws Affect Intrastate Trucks?Interstate truck laws are set by federal agencies and affect trucks that cross state lines. Intrastate trucks, however, are subject to Florida rules within the state. These laws affect a number of intrastate vehicles, including:
Intrastate trucks can be extremely heavy and can cause the same sort of traffic damage and personal injuries that commercial interstate trucks can cause. If you have been injured by an intrastate truck, you owe it to yourself to find out whether any rules or regulations were broken at the time of the accident. If there were, the at-fault parties may be facing criminal charges and you may also have a civil claim that allows you to seek compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, and other expenses related to your injuries.
What Rules May Have Been Violated in Your Traffic Accident?Intrastate trucks must abide by a number of laws and rules, including:
1) Proper licensing. Commercial intrastate trucks must be driven by drivers with a valid Florida commercial driver's license that is valid for the type of truck or vehicle being operated.
2) Size. Trucks must be a maximum of 102 inches (8.5 feet) wide, 162 inches (13.5 feet) high, and 576 inches (48 feet) long, although some trucks and vehicles are exempt from this rule.
3) A texting ban. As of June 2013, drivers of intrastate trucks are not allowed to text and drive.
4) Insurance coverage. Commercial trucks need to carry more coverage and insurance than private passenger cars.
5) Registration. With a few exceptions, virtually all intrastate commercial trucks must be registered with the Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) must have a registration number that is displayed on the truck.
6) Inspections. Commercial intrastate trucks may be inspected at roadside weigh stations in the state.
If you have been injured in a truck accident and would like answers, contact Flaxman Law Group to discuss your questions and concerns in a free, no obligation consultation. Flaxman Law Group attorneys work out of offices in Homestead, Hollywood, and Miami, and are willing to offer free, no obligation consultation to all new clients.