Key points
  • The Texas crash report (CR-3) usually lists the insurer and policy number for each vehicle.
  • For interstate carriers, FMCSA's licensing and insurance records show the liability insurance on file and the insurer's name.
  • Federal minimums start at $750,000 for general freight, but many carriers carry more through excess or umbrella policies.

Five places to look

  1. The crash report. The CR-3 records the insurance company and policy number for each vehicle involved. How to get the CR-3.
  2. Information exchanged at the scene. Texas law requires drivers involved in a crash to give their insurance information.
  3. FMCSA records. Look up the carrier's USDOT number in the trucking company safety lookup, then follow the link to its official record. For-hire interstate carriers must have liability insurance on file with FMCSA, showing the insurer and the coverage.
  4. TxDMV. Texas intrastate carriers file proof of insurance with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles as part of their registration.
  5. Your own insurer. Once you report the crash, your insurer will usually identify the other side's carrier and contact it.

Understanding the coverage

  • Primary liability: the main policy, at least the federal minimum for the type of cargo. See truck insurance minimums.
  • Excess and umbrella policies sit above the primary policy. They don't appear in public filings and are usually disclosed during a claim or in litigation.
  • Other parties' coverage: a broker, shipper, trailer owner or maintenance company may have its own insurance if it shares responsibility.
  • Your own policy: personal injury protection (PIP), uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) and collision coverage may help, especially if the truck's coverage is limited or disputed.

In Texas, a claimant can generally obtain information about the defendant's insurance during a lawsuit. Texas Rules of Civil Procedure require disclosure of relevant insurance agreements.

Talking to the trucking company's insurer

The insurer's adjuster works for the trucking company. Be polite and factual. You don't have to give a recorded statement or sign a broad medical authorization. Read dealing with trucking insurers before agreeing to either.