When an automobile accident takes place in the state of Texas, state law requires personal liability for the crash. This being the case, it is of critical importance that drivers follow the state law’s requirement of having auto insurance.
In fact, you cannot legally register your vehicle to drive in Texas unless you show proof of insurance. However, the state has specific minimum coverage requirements that do not mandate drivers to take out additional coverage for uninsured motorists. If you do not have uninsured motorist coverage, you may face a significant risk on Texas roadways.
The importance of uninsured motorist coverage
Texas law requires the person responsible for an accident to pay for the damage he or she caused in the auto crash. Basic auto insurance that covers liability usually meets this requirement. Therefore, if the accident was your fault, with the appropriate coverage, your insurance will pay for the damages to the other person’s vehicle, as well as any medical expenses that person may have.
A problem results when you are not at fault for the accident, but the other driver does not have the appropriate auto insurance resources to cover damages to your vehicle or your medical expenses. This is where Texas uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can come into play. This additional insurance coverage comes in two different types. The first type is bodily injury, which takes care of medical bills, lost wages and other damages related to injuries such as disfigurement or disability. The second type, property damage, covers the damages to your vehicle and costs associated with repairs, as well as damage to items in your car.
Interacting with insurance agents
If you suffer an injury in an motor vehicle accident triggered by someone else’s driving error, the other driver’s insurance company will likely contact you. You do not have any obligation to speak to the other driver’s insurance company or provide them with any details without first speaking to a qualified personal injury attorney who can guide you through the process. One false move or answer could jeopardize your chances to recover the appropriate compensation for your injuries.
