When another driver causes a motor vehicle accident, a primary concern for the injured victim is how much liability insurance coverage the person has. This is especially true in a truck crash where the victims can suffer catastrophic injuries or death, making their claims for compensation potentially much higher than in passenger vehicle collisions. Here, we discuss how much insurance is required for truckers and trucking companies and where to turn if the truck driver does not have the required insurance coverage.
How Much Insurance Must a Trucker and Trucking Company Carry?
A truck driver is required to carry $750,000 in liability insurance coverage to compensate victims of a wreck for their injuries and property 
damage if he is the at-fault driver. The trucking company he works for is also required to carry liability insurance coverage under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules. The amount the company is required to carry will depend on what is being carried. The following minimums are required:
- $300,000 if non-hazardous materials are being transported in a truck weighing under 10,001 pounds
- $750,000 if non-hazardous materials are being transported in a truck weighing over 10,001 pounds
- $1,000,000 for transporting oil
- $5,000,000 if transporting hazardous materials
Options for Compensation If the Trucker Does Not Have Liability Insurance Coverage
The negligent trucker would be the first avenue of compensation if you suffered injuries in the accident. If he did not have insurance coverage or it was insufficient to fully compensate you, you have other options for compensation. Here are a few potentially responsible parties:
Trucking company.
You always want to pursue a claim against the trucking company that employed the trucker. It will often carry much more liability coverage than the truck driver and the minimum required under FMCSA rules. In Texas, trucking companies can be held vicariously liable for the negligent actions of its truckers in causing a wreck.
Other liable parties.
In some cases, parties other than the trucker and trucking company could face liability for compensating you. For example, if the company responsible for loading the truck did so improperly and this was the cause of your wreck, you could file a claim with their insurance company.
Your own insurance company.
If you purchased collision, medical, or underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company for any amounts you are entitled to but did not receive from negligent parties.
Have You Been Injured In A Texas Truck Accident?
If you've been injured in a truck accident you need to speak with an experienced truck accident injury attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Colleyville office directly at 817.485.8888 to schedule your free consultation.
We help injured victims throughout Texas including Arlington, North Richland, Grapevine, Bedford, Hurst, Euless, Irving and all points in between.
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