Supreme Court ruling could ripple through the US trucking industry
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- The Supreme Court unanimously ruled that Shawn Montgomery can sue freight broker C.H. Robinson after a truck driver they hired caused a crash that led to Montgomery losing part of his leg, potentially increasing liability for brokers in the trucking industry.
- The Court found Montgomery’s claims fall under an exception for safety regulations, rejecting the company’s argument that federal law preempts state law in this case.
- The decision was supported by over two dozen states aiming to improve trucking safety, but criticized by industry groups like the Transportation Intermediaries Association, which warned it could lead to increased insurance costs and economic ripple effects.
- Freight brokers may now need to scrutinize the safety records of trucking companies more closely, potentially changing industry practices that previously prioritized cost and speed over safety.
- C.H. Robinson stated it will continue efforts to strengthen safety and reduce accidents, while the Transportation Department has been increasing regulatory enforcement in the trucking sector.