An authorized carrier in trucking is sometimes called a motor carrier. It is a business that transports goods or passengers across state lines. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) provides the business with this authority. It gives the company a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number and a Motor Carrier (MC) number.
A truck driver transporting items or passengers for an authorized carrier in trucking can cause an accident that leaves you injured. If this happens, seek legal help.
An Indiana truck accident lawyer provides legal guidance and support. They could request compensatory damages from a motor carrier on your behalf.
What Does It Mean to Be an Authorized Carrier in Trucking?
A truck company requires operating authority to work as a for-hire carrier. With the proper authority, the business can transport goods or passengers for payment. Alternatively, without this authority, the company is a private carrier. As such, it can only transport its property and personnel.
To become an authorized carrier, a trucking company must register with FMCSA. Next, the business obtains a USDOT number. This identifies a company or commercial vehicle that transports cargo or passengers. Finally, the company requests an MC number. This permits the business to transport goods or passengers between states.
Of course, truck driving is dangerous. Truck drivers working for authorized carriers can make mistakes behind the wheel. If a truck driver is liable for an accident, hold them accountable. Do so by taking legal action against the trucker and their employer, which could be an authorized carrier.
Your Case Will Get
The Attention It Deserves
What Is a for-Hire Carrier?
FMCSA defines an authorized for-hire carrier as a truck business that gets paid to transport passengers, property, or household goods. To operate as this type of carrier, a company must obtain a USDOT number and MC number.
There are four types of operating authority for authorized carriers:
- Motor Carrier Property (Except for Household Goods): Transports all items except household goods (tangible and moveable personal items intended for use in a home)
- Motor Carrier of Household Goods: Focuses on transporting household goods
- Broker of Property (Except for Household Goods): Coordinates the transport of property except for household goods
- Broker of Household Goods: Arranges the transportation of household goods
Certain carriers are exempt from FMCSA operating authority requirements. Carriers that work within a federally designated commercial zone are exempt from these mandates. Meanwhile, carriers that haul items not regulated by the federal government are also exempt.
Can an Authorized Carrier in Trucking Be Held Liable for an Accident?
A motor carrier in trucking can be held accountable for an accident. For example, an authorized carrier does not maintain its trucks properly. A truck driver acting within the scope of their job cannot stop their vehicle quickly enough due to faulty brakes. The driver could be involved in an accident, and the authorized carrier could be liable.
Following a trucking crash, meet with a truck accident lawyer. Next, your attorney can explain what a motor carrier is and determine if you have grounds for a lawsuit. If so, they can file your claim promptly.
Your attorney describes how to file a truck accident claim. They protect your legal rights and best interests during this process. Your lawyer makes sure you are well-equipped to secure a favorable case outcome.
Tips to Help You in a Case Against an Authorized Carrier
Trust a lawyer who has relevant truck accident case experience. Your lawyer will share truck accident FAQs and other legal resources. They offer tips to help you obtain compensatory damages that meet your expectations, such as:
Receive Medical Attention
Treat your truck accident injuries. Otherwise, these issues could affect your health and well-being for the rest of your life. Track your injury expenses, and your lawyer can include them in your compensation request.
Do Not Admit Fault
Notify your attorney if a motor carrier or the truck driver involved in your accident contacts you. What you say about your accident can be used against you. Let your lawyer discuss your case with an authorized carrier or trucker. Your attorney keeps you updated about their case communications.
Negotiate a Settlement
Allow your lawyer to pursue a settlement. If a liable party proposes a settlement, review the offer with your attorney. You are not legally obligated to approve a settlement. If an offer is less than what you want, decline it and continue with your litigation.
In addition to these things, share your legal concerns or questions with your lawyer. Ideally, your attorney addresses these immediately. They explain what an authorized carrier in trucking is and provide insights into other legal topics. By doing so, they help you make informed legal decisions.
Get Legal Help With a Truck Accident Case
You are worried you are solely responsible for your medical bills and other losses you incur in a trucking accident. Yet, an authorized carrier in the trucking sector could be liable for these. Talk to truck accident lawyers to find out if you can hold a motor carrier accountable.
Vaughan & Vaughan has been fighting for the injured in Indiana since 1913. Our Indiana truck accident attorneys understand what you are going through—and what you need to do about it.
Allow us to represent you in your truck collision case. Schedule a case consultation with us.
