Trucking Insurance Limits and Federal Minimums
Interstate trucking companies must carry minimum liability insurance under federal rules: $750,000 for general freight, $1 million for oil and most hazardous materials, and $5 million for certain dangerous hazardous materials. Many carriers carry more through excess or umbrella policies, which matters for serious injury claims.
Why do insurance limits matter?
Serious truck crash injuries can cost more than the minimum policy. Identifying every policy that applies, including the carrier's primary and excess coverage and policies of other liable parties, decides how much compensation is realistically available.
What if the insurance isn't enough?
- Look for excess and umbrella policies.
- Add other liable parties with their own insurance, such as a shipper, maintenance company or manufacturer.
- Check your own underinsured motorist coverage.
- Consider the company's own assets for amounts above its insurance.
Do intrastate trucks have the same minimums?
Not always. The federal minimums apply to interstate carriers. Trucks operating only within one state may be subject to lower state minimums, which makes identifying all coverage even more important.
| Type of cargo | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|
| General freight (non-hazardous), vehicles 10,001 lbs or more | $750,000 |
| Oil listed in 49 CFR 171.8 | $1,000,000 |
| Hazardous materials (most other hazmat) | $1,000,000 |
| Certain hazmat, e.g. explosives, poison gas, large bulk hazmat, radioactive | $5,000,000 |
Frequently asked questions
How much insurance does a trucking company have to carry?
Interstate carriers of general freight must carry at least $750,000 in liability coverage, rising to $1 million or $5 million for oil and hazardous materials (49 CFR 387.9).
Can a trucking company have more than the minimum?
Yes. Many carriers carry excess or umbrella policies well above the minimum, and these should be identified early in a claim.
What happens if my damages are more than the truck's insurance?
Other sources may be available, including excess policies, other liable parties, your own underinsured motorist coverage and the company's assets.
Do local trucks have the same insurance requirements?
Not necessarily. Federal minimums apply to interstate carriers, while trucks operating only within a state may follow lower state minimums.
How do I find out how much insurance a trucking company has?
FMCSA's licensing and insurance records show filed coverage for interstate carriers, and full policy details can be requested in a claim.