Texas has one of the largest highway networks in the country. However, not all highways are classified the same way. Some belong to the federal Interstate Highway System. Others are state highways that serve communities entirely within Texas.
Although these roads may look similar, there are important differences between interstate and intrastate highways. Those differences can become especially important when a serious car or commercial truck accident occurs.
Understanding these distinctions can help injured motorists determine which safety regulations apply, who may be responsible for an accident, and what compensation may be available.
What Is an Interstate Highway?
An interstate highway is a roadway that belongs to the Interstate Highway System. Interstate highways connect major cities, commercial centers, and communities throughout the United States.
Texas has numerous interstate highways, including:
- Interstate 10: Travels across Texas through Houston, San Antonio, and El Paso.
- Interstate 20: Connects communities across North and West Texas, including Dallas-Fort Worth and Midland-Odessa.
- Interstate 35: Runs through major Texas cities, including San Antonio, Austin, and portions of the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
- Interstate 45: Connects Houston, the Dallas area, and Galveston.
- Interstate 40: Crosses the Texas Panhandle through Amarillo.
Interestingly, an interstate highway does not necessarily cross a state line. For example, Interstate 45 is located entirely within Texas.
Interstate highways are generally designed for high-speed travel, with controlled access, entrance and exit ramps, and separated traffic traveling in opposite directions.
What Is an Intrastate Highway?
An intrastate highway generally refers to a highway or roadway that operates entirely within the boundaries of a single state. In Texas, these roads include many state highways, farm-to-market roads, and other routes maintained by the State.
Examples of intrastate highways include:
- State Highway 130: A toll highway that provides an alternative route around portions of the congested I-35 corridor.
- State Highway 6: A major Texas route connecting numerous communities.
- State Highway 288: Connects the Houston area with communities to the south.
- Farm-to-Market Road 1960: An important roadway serving communities in the greater Houston area.
These highways serve a variety of purposes. Some connect major metropolitan areas. Others provide access to smaller towns, agricultural communities, industrial facilities, and oilfields.
It is important to recognize that “intrastate highway” is often used as a descriptive term. It may not actually signify an official highway classification. A roadway’s official designation and the nature of commercial transportation occurring on it are separate questions.
What Is the Main Difference Between Interstate and Intrastate Highways?
The most obvious distinction involves how the roads are classified and the transportation systems they serve. Interstate highways belong to a nationally connected system designed to support travel and commerce in the United States. Intrastate highways are roads located within a single state that are not part of the federal Interstate Highway System.
The distinction becomes more complicated when commercial trucking is involved. Interstate commerce and intrastate commerce can describe the nature of trucking transportation.
For example, imagine a commercial truck picks up a shipment in Dallas and delivers it to Oklahoma City. The truck would be engaged in interstate commerce. If the shipment is not part of a larger interstate movement, the truck may be engaged in intrastate commerce.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Highway Accident?
Determining liability is one of the most important parts of a personal injury claim. In many accidents, a negligent driver is the primary responsible party. However, commercial truck accidents may involve additional defendants. A trucking company may face liability for a driver’s negligence. A company may also face liability for its own negligent conduct.
Responsible parties may include:
- Negligent drivers
- Trucking companies
- Vehicle maintenance providers
- Cargo loading companies
- Vehicle or component manufacturers
An attorney can examine the available evidence and determine which parties may be legally responsible.
Contact The de la Garza Law Group Today To Schedule a Free Consultation With a Houston Car Accident Attorney
The distinction between interstate and intrastate highways may affect which regulations apply, what evidence is relevant, and how an accident is investigated. If you have been injured in a Texas highway car accident, you may be entitled to compensation.
Contact The de la Garza Law Group for a free consultation with a Houston car accident lawyer. We will investigate your crash, identify liable parties, and help you fight for the justice you deserve.
Give us a call at (713) 784-1010, or visit our convenient location:
The de la Garza Law Group
1616 S Voss Rd, Suite 870, Houston, TX 77057
(713) 784-1010
24/7
