Harlene Labrum | February 28, 2025 | Truck Accidents

Interstate vs. Intrastate Trucking

 Interstate vs. Intrastate Trucking

Interstate and intrastate trucking have different rules that affect accident claims. Interstate trucking happens when trucks cross state lines. Intrastate trucking stays within one state and follows state laws.

These rules decide who is responsible for an accident. Understanding the difference between interstate vs. intrastate trucking helps to identify which laws apply to your case. If a truck accident happens in Nashville, TN, knowing these differences can help you take the proper legal steps.

What is Interstate Trucking?

Interstate trucking involves transporting goods or passengers across state lines. It involves a route that begins in one state and ends in another. This includes:

  • Deliveries that start in Tennessee and end in another state
  • Shipments passing through Tennessee on the way to another destination
  • Transporting goods that will eventually cross state lines, even if the driver remains in Tennessee

These transports must follow federal safety and compliance standards, no matter where they start or end.

Interstate Trucking Regulations

Interstate trucking involves multiple states, so it must follow federal safety standards. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets these guidelines. Some of them include:

These regulations keep truck drivers and the public safe by maintaining the same standards across state lines.

What is Intrastate Trucking?

Intrastate trucking refers to transportation that occurs entirely within Tennessee. These truck drivers and carriers do not cross state lines as part of their operations. Instead, they:

  • Deliver goods from one city in Tennessee to another within the state
  • Provide services that do not involve interstate commerce
  • Operate under Tennessee’s trucking laws rather than federal FMCSA regulations

This distinction is important because it can affect how your case is handled and which laws apply to the accident.

Intrastate Trucking Regulations

Tennessee controls intrastate trucking laws. Agencies like the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security establish guidelines like:

  • Tennessee’s own hours of service rules
  • Insurance requirements for commercial vehicles
  • State-specific weight and size limits

Truckers may need federal compliance, but they follow state rules when they are in them.

Key Differences Between Interstate and Intrastate Trucking

Interstate trucking and intrastate trucking differ in several key ways. Interstate trucking involves crossing state lines and is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), requiring higher federal insurance minimums and strict hours of service rules. Additionally, electronic logging devices (ELDs) are mandatory for interstate carriers. In contrast, intrastate trucking operates solely within Tennessee and follows state regulations, which may have lower insurance requirements and different hours of service rules. Some intrastate carriers may also be exempt from ELD requirements, depending on Tennessee-specific laws.

How These Differences Impact Truck Accident Cases in Tennessee

The difference between interstate and intrastate trucking is important in truck accident injury claims. Liability can depend on the rules the trucker and company had to follow. Key legal factors include:

  • Insurance coverage: Interstate carriers usually have higher insurance limits, which can affect compensation for accident victims.
    Safety violations: If an interstate trucking company breaks FMCSA rules, it can be used as proof of negligence.
    State vs. federal laws: Intrastate trucking accidents follow Tennessee’s laws, while interstate accidents also include federal laws.

Understanding these factors helps you figure out the best way to get compensation. It also shows how to hold the responsible party accountable for the accident.

Tennessee Negligence Laws and Statute of Limitations

Tennessee uses a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can get damages if you’re less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Tennessee law also has a one-year deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a truck accident. Missing this deadline can cause you to lose your right to seek compensation.

Contact the Nashville Truck Accident Attorneys at Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers Today

If you were injured in a trucking accident in Nashville, Tennessee, it’s important to know if the truck was involved in interstate or intrastate commerce. Contact Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options. We have the experience to handle trucking accident claims and fight for the compensation you deserve.

For more information, please contact the Nashville truck accident law firm of Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers, to schedule a free consultation today.

We proudly serve Nashville, Brentwood, and its surrounding areas in Tennessee:

Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers – Nashville
315 Deaderick St, Suite 1525
Nashville, TN 37238
(615) 685-8546

Labrum Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers – Brentwood
320 Seven Springs Way, Suite 250
Brentwood, TN 37027
(615) 455-3384