FAIR Trucking Act

The FAIR Trucking Act would change where certain highway accident lawsuits against trucking companies are heard. Currently, accident victims can file lawsuits in state courts, which sponsors argue allows attorneys to choose courts they believe will be more favorable to plaintiffs. This bill would require that large trucking accident cases involving interstate commerce and damages exceeding $5 million be heard in federal courts instead. Supporters contend this prevents "forum shopping" and protects trucking companies from what they characterize as excessive jury awards. The bill has been endorsed by the American Trucking Associations. If enacted, the bill would apply to cases where the accident involves a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce, damages exceed $5 million, and the parties are from different states. The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House.