Are Changes Coming to Federal Trucking Legislation? | KNR
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KNR Legal
Date posted
 
June 30, 2025
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Truck accidents remain a serious issue across Ohio and the United States. Due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, these crashes often lead to catastrophic injuries and fatalities.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), over 500,000 large truck crashes occurred nationwide in recent years, with tens of thousands resulting in serious injury or death. As legislators push for greater safety measures, two newly proposed federal bills could significantly change the trucking industry.

If you’ve been hurt in a truck accident, these changes could directly impact your ability to recover compensation. At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, our truck accident lawyers are ready to help you understand your rights and pursue the recovery you deserve.

What’s Behind the Push for Trucking Reform in 2025?

Two bills introduced in Congress are aiming to reduce truck accidents by:

  • Raising the minimum liability insurance that trucking companies must carry
  • Mandating automatic emergency braking systems (AEBs) in new commercial trucks

These changes are part of a larger effort to improve road safety and reduce the number of preventable truck crashes.

Increased Insurance Minimums for Trucking Companies

The INSURANCE Act, reintroduced in 2025 by Representatives Jesús “Chuy” García and Matt Cartwright, would dramatically raise the federal liability insurance minimum for motor carriers. Currently set at $750,000, the new proposed amount would be tied to medical cost inflation, bringing the minimum to nearly $5 million.

FMCSA Concerns About Coverage Gaps

The FMCSA has publicly stated that the current minimum “does not adequately cover catastrophic crashes,” particularly given the rise in healthcare costs over the past 40 years.

Common Injuries in Catastrophic Truck Crashes

When truck accidents happen, victims may suffer:

These types of injuries often require long-term care and extensive medical treatment, which can easily exceed the current $750,000 policy minimum.

Industry Pushback Against the Increase

Groups like the American Trucking Associations (ATA) and the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) argue that most truck crashes do not result in damages exceeding $750,000. They say increasing insurance minimums will increase costs for small carriers and independent drivers without significantly improving safety.

Mandatory Emergency Braking Systems: A Safety Game-Changer?

Rep. Hank Johnson reintroduced the Safe Roads Act of 2025 (previously introduced as HB 3733 in earlier sessions). This bill would require all new commercial trucks to be equipped with automatic emergency braking systems (AEBs) within one year of its passage.

AEB systems automatically detect potential collisions and apply the brakes if the driver fails to act in time. These systems are already required in passenger vehicles in some countries and have shown promise in reducing crashes.

Brake Failures Are a Leading Cause of Truck Crashes

According to the FMCSA’s Large Truck Crash Causation Study, brake problems contributed to nearly 30% of truck crashes. When a truck’s braking system is poorly maintained or defective, the consequences can be devastating.

By requiring AEBs in all new trucks, the Safe Roads Act aims to:

  • Shorten stopping distances
  • Improve driver reaction time
  • Prevent rear-end collisions and highway pileups
  • Reduce fatalities in high-speed impact crashes

How These Bills Could Affect Ohio Truck Accident Victims

Whether you’re a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, these proposed safety measures could directly impact your case if you’re involved in a truck crash.

For Victims

Higher insurance minimums could mean:

  • More compensation available for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering
  • Greater accountability for trucking companies that fail to maintain safe operations

Mandatory emergency braking systems could help:

  • Prevent accidents before they happen
  • Provide additional evidence in your favor if a crash occurs

For Trucking Companies

If passed, these bills would require companies to:

  • Upgrade safety systems
  • Increase liability coverage
  • Adjust business models to account for rising operational costs

What Happens Next?

As of mid-2025, the INSURANCE Act and Safe Roads Act are still under congressional review. The trucking industry and safety advocates continue to debate the economic and safety impacts.

Regardless of how the legislation progresses, truck crash victims still need experienced legal help to pursue compensation and navigate the legal system.

Injured in a Truck Crash? KNR Is Ready to Help.

Whether a negligent driver caused your accident or a faulty braking system contributed to your injuries, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.

At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, our Ohio truck accident lawyers have helped thousands of clients recover millions in settlements and verdicts. We’ll:

  • Investigate your crash
  • Handle the insurance companies
  • Fight for maximum compensation

Your recovery starts with a free consultation. Call 1-800-HURT-NOW or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation to start recovery.