When it comes to driving legally in Texas, having car insurance isn’t just recommended; it’s required by law. Without the proper coverage, you risk large fines, license suspension, and potentially having your vehicle impounded. Understanding the types of insurance available and the legal minimums can help you stay compliant with Texas law and protect you in the event of an accident.

RTRLAW wants to make sure you’re legally prepared by explaining what types of coverages are available in Texas, what the legal requirements are, and what to do if you’re hit by an uninsured driver.

What Is the Minimum Car Insurance Required in Texas?

Before exploring your full range of coverage options, it’s important to first understand the bare minimum required by Texas law. The Lone Star state mandates that all drivers carry a minimum level of liability insurance. This basic coverage is often referred to as 30/60/25 coverage and includes:

  • $30,000 for bodily injury per person injured in an accident
  • $60,000 total for bodily injury per accident (if multiple people are hurt)
  • $25,000 for property damage per accident

This liability coverage is designed to pay for injuries and damages you cause to others in a car accident. However, it does not cover your own injuries or vehicle damage. That’s why many drivers opt for additional coverage beyond the minimum required.

What Type of Insurance Coverage Is Available in Texas?

In addition to the minimum requirements, Texas drivers can choose from a range of auto insurance coverage options, depending on their needs and financial goals:

  • Liability Coverage: Required by law, this pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others. It also covers a rental car while repairs are being made.
  • Collision Coverage: Required if you’re financing your car, this coverage pays to repair or replace your vehicle after a collision, regardless of fault.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against non-collision-related damage, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Helps pay for your expenses if you’re hit by someone with no insurance or inadequate coverage. This includes both bodily injury and property damage.

Choosing the right combination of coverage, especially when that combination includes UM coverage, can make all the difference if you’re ever involved in a crash with a driver who hit you and doesn’t have any insurance at all.

What Should I Do if I Am Involved in an Accident With an Uninsured Motorist?

Even though Texas state law requires motorists to carry some type of car insurance coverage, many people ignore this mandate and drive anyway without insurance. As a result, you may be involved in an accident where the other driver has no insurance.

However, you do have options to help you recover compensation to pay for accident-related expenses such as lost wages, medical bills, and vehicle repair costs. For instance, you can:

  • File a claim using your uninsured motorist coverage.
  • Use your health insurance coverage to pay for medical bills and expenses.
  • File a personal injury lawsuit against the uninsured driver who caused the accident.

How Can an Attorney Help Me After I Have Been Involved in a Motor Vehicle Accident?

If you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle accident, consult an experienced injury attorney to find out about available legal options. In cases where an uninsured/underinsured motorist has hit you, an attorney may be able to help you file a personal injury lawsuit to help recover the damages you’ve incurred.

If you’re the person without auto insurance, be sure to change that and get adequate insurance today; it’s the law. Driving without the required coverage in Texas can lead to serious consequences, including fines of up to $1,000, suspension of your driver’s license for up to two years, and even impoundment of your vehicle for as long as 180 days.

Either way, a knowledgeable auto accident attorney also can guide you through the complex process of filing a claim and act as your legal advocate when dealing with the insurance companies.

For more information about how an RTRLAW attorney can help you after being involved in a motor vehicle accident, or for a FREE, no-obligation case review, call RTRLAW at (972) 478-1801 or toll-free at 1-833-HIRE-RTR (1-833-447-3787) today!