Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage Required in Texas?

While it is the law in Texas that every driver should maintain liability insurance to pay for damages they cause by their negligent operation of a motor vehicle, not all Texans follow the law. If you are involved in an accident involving an uninsured driver, uninsured motorist coverage can be an important failsafe. Here is what you need to know about this insurance coverage.

What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

Uninsured motorist coverage pays for certain damages if you are involved in an accident caused by an uninsured driver There are two types of uninsured motorist coverage in Texas: bodily injury and property damage. Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage generally pays for medical bills, while property damage coverage pays for the costs to repair your damaged vehicle.

When you have uninsured motorist coverage and the responsible driver is uninsured, you file a claim with your own insurance company for coverage.

Do I Have to Carry Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Texas?

Texas requires auto insurance companies to offer uninsured motorist coverage to anyone purchasing liability insurance. However, it’s not technically mandatory. If you don’t want uninsured motorist coverage, you must reject it in writing. If you don’t react either way, you will automatically be given uninsured motorist coverage.

In Texas, all drivers must maintain liability coverage in the following amounts:

• $30,000 in bodily injury per person
• $60,000 in bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 in property damage

However, if the driver lets their insurance lapse or you suffer a serious injury, their insurance may not be sufficient to cover your damages.

When Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Apply?

Uninsured motorist coverage can apply in various situations, including:

• An at-fault driver was uninsured in an accident that injured you or caused property damage.
• You were injured in a hit-and-run accident, and the police can’t locate the driver.
• The at-fault driver was driving without the vehicle owner’s permission.

When Uninsured Motorist Coverage Pays For

UM bodily injury covers the following:

• Medical bills, including hospital stays, emergency treatment, ambulance rides, physical therapy, ongoing medical treatment, follow-up appointments with doctors, and long-term medical care
• Lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working
• Permanent disability
• Scarring or disfigurement
• Physical pain and suffering

UM property damage pays for the following:

• Costs to repair your vehicle
• Replacement costs if repair costs exceed the value of the vehicle
• Damage to other personal property
• Rental car costs

How Much Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Pay For?

The lowest amount of UM coverage you can purchase is the same as the state-mandated liability insurance coverage. However, this may not be enough insurance if you get in an accident. You can usually purchase additional insurance in $5,000 increments.

Contact Our Uninsured Motorist Lawyers for Help After an Accident

If you were injured in an accident caused by an uninsured motorist, The Aguirre Law Firm, PLLC can help. Our experienced San Antonio uninsured motorist accident lawyers can review your insurance coverage, handle your claim with the insurance company, and fight for you to recover fair compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation.