What does 49 CFR 387.3 (Applicability) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 387.3 requires for-hire motor carriers operating in interstate or foreign commerce and motor carriers transporting hazardous materials to have minimum levels of financial responsibility. There are exceptions for vehicles with a GVWR of less than 10,001 pounds, unless they transport certain hazardous materials.

The rule says

"This subpart applies to for-hire motor carriers operating motor vehicles transporting property in interstate or foreign commerce." (49 CFR 387.3(a))

"The rules in this subpart do not apply to a motor vehicle that has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of less than 10,001 pounds." (49 CFR 387.3(c)(1))

In plain English

This rule applies to most for-hire motor carriers and those transporting hazardous materials, but there's an exception for smaller vehicles. However, if those smaller vehicles are carrying certain hazardous materials, they're still subject to the rule. In practice, this means that motor carriers need to ensure they have adequate financial responsibility, such as insurance, to cover potential accidents or incidents. Inspectors will check for compliance with these financial responsibility requirements during audits.

What to do

• Review your motor carrier's operations to determine if you're subject to this rule
• Ensure you have adequate financial responsibility, such as insurance, to cover potential accidents or incidents
• Verify that your vehicles meet the weight exemption, if applicable, and that you're not transporting hazardous materials that would require compliance with the rule