Interstate vs. Intrastate

While these two terms may sound incredibly similar, they are actually quite different.

"Interstate" and "Intrastate" are important to distinguish from one another not only because they are different, but because they carry out distinctly different functions. The "interstate" refers to a network of freeways and highways that cross over state lines. Interstates are part of the national highway system that was formulated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956.

The very definition of an interstate is that is crosses state lines, which makes "intrastate" the exact opposite. Therefore, "intrastates" are highways that are completely confined to areas within state lines.

On interstates, you will see a sign with "Interstate" and a number. This lets you know you are on a U.S. highway.
If you are traveling on an intrastate, then you will see "State Highway" followed by the number of the highway.

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Role of Highways in the Commercial Driving Industry

When it comes to the trucking industry, the distinction between interstate and intrastate is important. One of the primary reasons is because commercial drivers must be licensed differently. There are also insurance issues that trucking companies face if they allow an intrastate driver to take a load across a state line. If an intrastate driver gets into an accident in another state, then the penalties are serious for the trucking company and other involved parties.

An insurance carrier may refuse to pay for an accident claim since the driver was not operating in their designated state. If this happens, then a person may sustain significant financial losses because of a messy insurance scenario. The distinction between interstate and intrastate is important not only for the trucking industry, but for drivers of commercial vehicles as well.

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Throughout the years, our personal injury law firm has helped countless individuals fight for full and fair compensation following a serious accident. This has led to us recovering millions on behalf of our clients. In fact, we have won billions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. This is the kind of hands-on experience that you can trust. No matter whether you were injured on an interstate or intrastate highway, you can trust in our firm to represent your best interests Call (888) 490-0442 now to request your free, confidential case review from a member of our firm. We look forward to helping you.