Ask X3What is a commercial motor vehicle under 49 CFR 390.5?
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Short answer
A commercial motor vehicle is defined in 49 CFR 390. However, according to 49 CFR 390.5, related definitions are provided for terms like "accident", "semitrailer", "truck", and "truck tractor".
The rule says
"Accident means (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this definition, an occurrence involving a commercial motor vehicle operating on a highway in interstate or intrastate commerce which results in: (i) A fatality; (ii) Bodily injury to a person who, as a result of the injury, immediately receives medical treatment away from the scene of the accident; or (iii) One or more motor vehicles incurring disabling damage." (49 CFR 390.5)
"Semitrailer means any motor vehicle, other than a pole trailer, which is designed to be drawn by another motor vehicle and is constructed so that some part of its weight rests upon the self-propelled towing motor vehicle." (49 CFR 390.5)
"Truck means any self-propelled commercial motor vehicle except a truck tractor, designed and/or used for the transportation of property." (49 CFR 390.5)
"Truck tractor means a self-propelled commercial motor vehicle designed and/or used primarily for drawing other vehicles." (49 CFR 390.5)
In plain English
The definition of terms like "semitrailer", "truck", and "truck tractor" provide insight into the types of vehicles that may be considered commercial motor vehicles.
What to do
- Review 49 CFR 390.5 and related regulations to understand the definition of a commercial motor vehicle.
- Determine if your vehicle meets the definition of a commercial motor vehicle based on its use, weight, and other factors.
- Ensure compliance with applicable Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations if your vehicle is considered a commercial motor vehicle.