Quick Summary
Who it’s for:
Texas drivers, passengers, or families injured in truck accidents involving interstate carriers.
When to read:
If you’ve been hit by an 18-wheeler, delivery truck, or commercial carrier in Texas and wonder how federal insurance rules apply to your case.
What you’ll learn:
- What an MCS-90 endorsement is and why it matters in trucking cases
- How Texas law interacts with these federal rules
- Why having a San Antonio truck accident lawyer like Ryan Orsatti can help you secure the maximum recovery
What Is an MCS-90 Endorsement?
An MCS-90 endorsement is a special federal insurance requirement attached to motor carriers who operate across state lines. It ensures that trucking companies carry coverage for accidents—even if their standard insurance policy tries to exclude the claim.
In simple terms, the MCS-90 acts as a safety net for victims of trucking accidents. If a trucking company’s insurance would otherwise deny coverage, the MCS-90 requires the insurer to pay valid injury claims. After paying, the insurer can later try to recover from the trucking company—but that’s not the victim’s problem.
Texas Equivalents and Overlap
While the MCS-90 is a federal rule under the Motor Carrier Act, Texas also has its own insurance and financial responsibility laws for intrastate carriers. The Texas Department of Insurance requires commercial carriers to maintain minimum levels of liability coverage based on vehicle size and type.
For example:
| Vehicle Type | Federal Minimums (MCS-90) | Texas Minimums |
|---|---|---|
| General freight (over 10,001 lbs.) | $750,000 | $500,000–$750,000 depending on size |
| Oilfield & hazardous materials | $1,000,000–$5,000,000 | Often mirrors federal minimums |
| Passenger carriers (buses) | $5,000,000 | $5,000,000 |
The key difference is that MCS-90 applies to interstate commerce, while Texas financial responsibility applies to vehicles operating only within the state. In practice, many trucking companies in Texas must comply with both.
Why This Matters in a Truck Accident Case
For injury victims, the MCS-90 can be the difference between no insurance coverage and a guaranteed recovery path.
Imagine being hit on I-35 near San Antonio by an out-of-state trucking company. If their insurer denies coverage due to a technicality, the MCS-90 may force payment anyway. Without it, you could be left fighting a company with limited assets.
That’s why an experienced Texas trucking lawyer will always check for:
- Whether the carrier is registered with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)
- If an MCS-90 endorsement exists on the policy
- How Texas state minimums apply alongside federal rules
Ryan Orsatti Law: Fighting for Truck Accident Victims
Attorney Ryan Orsatti and his team have handled 18-wheeler and commercial trucking cases across Texas, including crashes on I-10, Loop 1604, and the Eagle Ford Shale routes.
- Ryan personally manages each case—no handoffs to case managers.
- The firm is San Antonio-based but takes cases statewide.
- Clients consistently praise the team for communication and results.
One recent client, Elena Junco, shared:
“The moment I called Ryan Orsatti after being hit by an 18-wheeler he truly listened… His team worked diligently to ensure I received the maximum settlement. I highly recommend him and his team.”
With a perfect 5.0 Google rating and recognition as a Super Lawyers Rising Star from 2022–2025, Ryan Orsatti Law has built trust across San Antonio and beyond.
MCS-90 and Insurance Company Tactics
Even when the MCS-90 is in place, insurers may:
- Delay acknowledgment of coverage
- Argue the accident falls outside policy terms
- Try to shift blame onto victims
Ryan Orsatti Law has a “no quick settle” rule—cases are not rushed until full medical treatment and damages evaluation are complete. This ensures insurers can’t exploit technicalities while clients are still recovering.
Practical Example
Scenario: A family is struck on Loop 410 by a truck registered in Oklahoma. The insurer denies coverage, saying the truck was being used for a purpose outside the listed policy.
Result with MCS-90: The endorsement obligates the insurer to cover the claim. Ryan Orsatti Law steps in, confirms federal filings, and forces payment—getting the family their rightful compensation for medical bills and lost wages.
Why Choose Ryan Orsatti Law for MCS-90 Cases?
- Deep knowledge of trucking regulations: Familiar with both FMCSA rules and Texas insurance code.
- Personalized attention: Clients work directly with Ryan, not shuffled between associates.
- Proven results: Many reviews note that Ryan “got me the max” settlement.
- Local insight: Born and raised in San Antonio, Ryan knows local courts, adjusters, and roadways.
Helpful Resource
For official federal guidance on the MCS-90 endorsement, visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website.
Final Takeaway
If you or a loved one has been hit by a commercial truck in Texas, the MCS-90 endorsement may be your lifeline to compensation. But navigating these federal and state rules requires legal skill.
Ryan Orsatti Law has the experience, the 5-star reputation, and the local San Antonio insight to protect your rights.
Ryan Orsatti Law – San Antonio’s 5★ Personal Injury Firm
📍 4634 De Zavala Road, San Antonio, TX 78249
📞 210-525-1200
Call today for a free consultation. You’ll speak directly with attorney Ryan Orsatti and his team—dedicated to getting you the recovery you deserve.