How Does Car Insurance Work in Texas? | FREE Consultation

How Does Car Insurance Work in Texas?

Insurance can be complicated, especially when it comes to auto insurance and accident claims. Determining whose policy should apply and what that policy should cover is often more difficult than it should be, especially when insurers prioritize their profits over someone’s health.

When you’ve been hurt in a car accident, you should always seek the counsel of a lawyer from Denena Points in order to get the most from your insurance settlement.

Texas Is a Fault State

Texas is a “fault” state (as opposed to a “no-fault” state). Being a fault state means that drivers are financially liable for the accidents that they cause. The injured party can file a first-party claim through his or her own insurance if the individual has the appropriate coverage. Then a third-party claim can be filed with the at-fault driver’s insurance. A personal injury lawsuit can also be pursued against the at-fault party in order to obtain further compensation.

Minimum Insurance Requirements in Texas

Every driver must have insurance that meets the state’s minimum requirements and carry his or her proof of insurance in the vehicle at all times. Texas’ minimum requirements are as follows:

  • $30,000 for bodily injury per person
  • $60,000 for bodily injury per accident if two or more people are injured
  • $25,000 for property damage per accident

It is highly recommended that you select better coverage than what the minimum provides. You could be financially liable for any damages your insurance doesn’t cover. If you’re on the other side of that situation, you will want to have an underinsured motorist policy, as well.

Uninsured and Underinsured Driver Coverage

You can also protect yourself against uninsured and underinsured drivers with coverage specifically designed for such situations. These are separate policies that can provide you with compensation when a driver is uninsured and has nothing to compensate you with.

Insurance Tactics After a Crash

The at-fault party’s insurance company will fight you every step of the way when it comes to settling a claim. Their goal is to save their bottom line at the expense of both your health and your family’s financial security. They will often use statements made about an accident out of context in an attempt to minimize their losses—and your compensation.

This is because Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule that reduces your compensation by the same amount as your guilt. For example, if you are awarded a $100,000 settlement but are judged to be 10 percent at-fault, you would only receive $90,000. Your lawyers will work hard to minimize the percentage of your fault by building and presenting the most compelling case possible.

Free Consultation with a Houston Auto Wreck Attorney

If you have been injured in an accident, you deserve to be compensated for all of your losses. Your first step should be speaking with a car accident lawyer from Denena Points about what to expect from the insurance company that will ultimately have to provide your settlement. Call us at 713-807-9500 or fill out the form below to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.