Matthew Mincone | July 28, 2025 | Truck Accidents
Intrastate and interstate trucking are both crucial in keeping goods moving across the country. However, the rules governing them are very different. The distinction affects safety rules, insurance, and liability after a crash.
Understanding the differences between the two can help you understand the rules that apply after a truck accident.
Defining Interstate vs. Intrastate Trucking
Intrastate trucking means transporting goods and/or passengers within a single state, while interstate trucking refers to transporting cargo across state lines. However, the distinction can be more complicated. Even if the truck does not cross state lines, it may still be considered interstate commerce.
The distinction between intrastate and interstate trucking can get complicated. Still, it’s important to get it right because it determines which set of laws and safety regulations applies.
Intrastate vs. Interstate Trucking Regulations
Because interstate trucking crosses state boundaries, it falls under federal jurisdiction. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets and enforces safety rules.
Intrastate trucking is primarily regulated by state law. Each state sets its own safety standards. Many states adopt rules that mirror federal guidelines. Some states have stricter or looser rules governing the trucking industry.
In Florida, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FDHSMV) regulates the intrastate trucking industry.
Here are essential federal and state trucking regulations for interstate and intrastate commerce.
Licensing, Registration & Operating Authority
A U.S. DOT number is required for both interstate and intrastate trucking in Florida. Intrastate trucks must be registered with the Florida Department of Transportation and displayed with a valid Florida registration number or U.S. DOT number.
Interstate trucking usually requires interstate operating authority and an MC number.
Insurance
Interstate motor carriers are required to carry minimum liability insurance.
Federal Insurance Requirements for Interstate Carriers
Requirements are based on freight type:
- Non-hazardous freight (gross vehicle weight rating under 10,001 pounds): $300,000
- Non-hazardous freight (gross vehicle weight rating of 10,001 or more pounds): $750,000
- Oil and certain hazardous materials: $1 million
- Other hazardous materials: $5 million
- Passenger carriers: $1.5 to $5 million
These insurance requirements help ensure that victims of commercial vehicle accidents have access to compensation when serious injuries or property damage occur.
Florida Insurance Requirements for Intrastate Carriers
Florida intrastate carriers must have minimum commercial liability insurance.
Requirements are based on gross vehicle weight (GVW):
- 26,000 to 34,999 GVW: $50,000 per occurrence
- 35,000 to 43,999 GVW: $100,000 per occurrence
- 44,000 or more GVW: $200,000 per occurrence
Depending on the cargo and weight, motor carriers may be required to have additional coverage or higher limits. For example, household goods movers must have cargo liability insurance for interstate operations.
Hours of Service
Florida’s hours of service rules for intrastate carriers are similar to the FMCSA hours of service rules.
Intrastate drivers must follow these hours of service rules:
- Driving is limited to 12 hours after 10 hours off duty
- Up to 16 hours on duty after 10 consecutive hours off duty
- Up to 70/80 driving hours in seven/eight consecutive days
Florida has a short-haul exemption for intrastate drivers. It applies within a 150-mile radius of their reporting location.
The FMCSA rules are slightly stricter. Drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving after 10 hours off duty. Driving is not allowed beyond 60/70 hours on duty in seven/eight consecutive days.
Vehicle Maintenance and Inspections
Florida’s Office of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) handles inspections. Florida has adopted FMCSA regulations regarding vehicle inspections and maintenance guidelines.
Trucks must undergo a thorough inspection by a qualified inspector every 12 months. Drivers must complete pre-trip inspections and report any defects or safety issues. Maintenance and inspection logs must be maintained for compliance.
Why the Distinction Matters
The distinction between intrastate and interstate trucking affects which rules apply. After an accident, state or federal regulations play a significant role in establishing liability.
Interstate carriers are usually subject to stricter regulations. Safety violations can be strong evidence of negligence. For example, fatigued driving is a common factor in trucking accidents. A driver who has been on the road for more than 11 hours is violating FMCSA rules. Yet, they may not be violating state regulations.
Interstate carriers are also required to carry higher levels of liability insurance. If you are seriously hurt, you have a better chance of receiving full, fair compensation.
Contact the Tampa Truck Accident Lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you’ve been injured in an truck accident in Tampa, FL, contact our skilled truck accident lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
We proudly serve Hillsborough County and its surrounding areas:
Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers
1925 E 6th Ave Ste 10
Tampa, FL 33605
(813) 800-0810
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Tampa
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About The Author
Attorney Matthew Mincone is the founder of Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers. He earned his law degree while attending night programs in New York and is licensed to practice in Florida. With over 15 years of legal experience, Matthew focuses on personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents involving cars, commercial trucks, and motorcycles. His commitment to personally handling each case ensures clients receive dedicated representation. Click here to view some of the remarkable case results that Matthew has successfully achieved.
Location: Tampa, FL
