A motor carrier is a company or individual that transports goods or passengers by commercial motor vehicle, such as a truck, bus, or tractor-trailer. These carriers operate within the transportation industry, providing services that connect businesses, manufacturers, and consumers.
The efficient movement of goods across cities, states, and even international borders is essential for keeping supply chains running smoothly. From the food on our tables to the electronics in our homes, virtually every product we use has been transported by a motor carrier at some point.
But what exactly is a motor carrier, and what role do they play in the vast world of transportation and logistics? Our Indianapolis truck accident lawyers have the information you need to understand motor carriers and what they do.
What Are Motor Carriers?
Motor carriers engage in commerce through the operation of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) to convey goods, persons, or hazardous materials (HAZMAT). Either an owner-operator or a business with multiple vehicles could fit the bill.
Motor carriers come in various shapes and sizes, ranging from small, independent owner-operators to massive fleets owned by multinational corporations.
Regardless of their scale, all motor carriers must comply with a set of regulations and safety standards established by governing bodies like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Your Case Will Get
The Attention It Deserves
The Importance of Motor Carriers
Motor carriers play a crucial role in the global supply chain, enabling the timely and efficient delivery of goods to their intended destinations. Without the services they provide, our modern way of life would grind to a halt. Here are just a few reasons why motor carriers are so vital:
- They connect manufacturers to retailers and consumers, ensuring products are available when and where they are needed.
- They facilitate international trade by transporting goods across borders, supporting economic growth and global commerce.
- They provide employment opportunities for millions of skilled drivers, mechanics, and logistics professionals.
- They contribute to the overall sustainability of the transportation industry by continuously improving fuel efficiency and adopting eco-friendly technologies.
Choosing the Right Motor Carrier
For businesses that rely on the transportation of goods, selecting the appropriate motor carrier is crucial. When evaluating potential carriers, it’s essential to consider factors such as their safety record, reliability, service offerings, and pricing structure.
Additionally, it’s wise to partner with carriers that have a strong commitment to customer service and a proven track record of delivering on their promises.
Facts About Motor Carriers
The seamless and uninterrupted flow of goods, services, and passenger traffic throughout the country is made possible by the efficient and safe delivery systems facilitated by motor carriers.
This continuous movement of cargo and people is a critical enabler for various economic sectors and industries, ensuring their smooth operations and supply chain continuity.
Percentage of Products Moved by Motor Carrier
Motor carriers are the dominant mode of freight transportation in the United States, accounting for a substantial 67.9% share of the total weight of goods moved across the country, according to data from the 2023 Pocket Guide to Large Truck and Bus Statistics.
This percentage has been consistently rising over the years, and all indications suggest that this upward trend will continue in the foreseeable future.
Billions of Tons of Goods Moved
Commercial vehicles play an indispensable role in supporting the nation’s economic engine. Massive quantities of goods, over 17 billion tons annually, are transported by large trucks in the United States, facilitating the movement of products from their points of origin to their intended destinations.
To expand, the weight a single semi-truck can haul is approximately 42-48,000 lbs. A maximum gross total weight of 80,000 pounds is allowed including the truck and trailer, which can weigh between 10,000-35,000 lbs.
Millions of Jobs
The transportation industry is a significant source of employment, providing livelihoods for millions of Americans. As of December 2022, approximately 9 million individuals were employed as drivers of large trucks and buses or were engaged in activities related to the transportation of hazardous materials.
Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a motor carrier’s vehicle, the process of collecting compensation for your injuries can be complicated. The Indianapolis personal injury lawyers of Vaughan & Vaughan can help you seek compensation and protect your rights when dealing with these big businesses.
Our experienced attorneys have a deep understanding of the intricate laws and regulations governing the motor carrier industry, and we’ll leverage this knowledge to build a strong case on your behalf.
We’ll handle all communication with the motor carrier’s insurance company and legal team, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help in a free consultation, and let us fight for the fair compensation you deserve.
