4 Types of Auto Insurance Coverage Every Texan Should Have
Most drivers in Texas don’t realize how essential these are until after an accident and it’s too late.
Driving in Texas brings its own set of risks, especially as a resident of Houston, TX, where we are no strangers to heavy traffic and bad drivers. Ensuring you have comprehensive auto insurance coverage is not just a precaution—it’s a critical component of responsible vehicle ownership that protects you and your family. Understanding your auto insurance policy and available options is important because, after a crash, you can’t go back and add the coverage you wished you had! This blog outlines the four essential parts of auto accident coverage in Texas and explains why having all four is crucial, especially in the event of an accident where another party is at fault.
Continue reading to learn more useful information and get advice from a Board-Certified personal injury attorney in Texas.
What are the 4 Essential Types of Auto Insurance Coverage Every Texas Driver Should Have?
- Liability Coverage
- Collision Coverage
- Personal Injury Protection
- Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Coverage
1. Liability Coverage
Liability insurance is the foundation of auto insurance policies in Texas and is legally required for all drivers. It covers damages and injuries you may cause to other people in an accident, not damages to your own vehicle or your injuries.
Why It’s Essential: Liability coverage protects you from the potential financial devastation of being sued for damages or medical expenses related to an accident you caused. It provides the peace of mind that you can cover the costs of property damage or medical injuries incurred by others without jeopardizing your personal finances.
In Texas, the minimum amount of liability coverage you can carry is $30,000 per person and $60,000 per incident. This is the minimum required by law, and you can increase those limits, often up to $300,000 or more, which is particularly important if you have any significant net worth that could be taken from you if you are at fault and seriously hurt someone else.
2. Collision Coverage
Collision coverage pays for damage to your vehicle if you hit another vehicle, an object, or if your car rolls over, regardless of who is at fault.
Why It’s Essential: This type of coverage is invaluable for getting your vehicle repaired or replaced quickly after an accident, without waiting to determine fault, ensuring you are not left without transportation or the financial burden of paying for repairs out of pocket.
3. Personal Injury Protection (Medical Expenses)
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) covers medical expenses for you and your passengers after an accident, regardless of who is at fault. It can also cover other related costs like lost wages and rehabilitation services.
Why It’s Essential: Medical expenses can accumulate quickly following an accident. Having PIP ensures that you and your passengers receive the necessary medical attention without the immediate stress of high medical bills, providing broader financial protection and quicker personal recovery.
4. Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage protects you if you’re in an accident with an at-fault driver who does not carry any liability insurance. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage steps in when the at-fault driver’s liability limits are too low to cover the damage or medical expenses.
Why It’s Essential: Despite the law, not all drivers carry adequate insurance. UM and UIM coverage ensure that you are not left covering all the costs, particularly for medical treatment and vehicle repair, when another party fails to provide adequate compensation.
Each type of auto accident coverage plays a vital role in protecting you financially and legally in the event of an accident. Having all four types of coverage ensures comprehensive protection and provides a robust safety net that allows you to recover without the additional burden of unbearable costs. It also empowers your personal injury lawyer to secure the maximum possible compensation on your behalf, should you need to pursue a claim.
Why Legal Assistance Is Crucial
In the event of an accident, having a knowledgeable Board-Certified personal injury lawyer in Harris County can make a significant difference in the compensation you receive. An experienced attorney can help navigate the complexities of insurance claims, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that all your costs are covered, not just immediately but for any long-term expenses that arise.
Contact Our Houston Injury Law Firm
If you’re unsure about your current auto insurance coverage or need assistance after an auto accident in Houston, TX, contact The Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec. We can help review your policy to ensure you have the coverage you need and provide expert legal assistance to handle any claims or disputes effectively. Don’t wait until it’s too late—ensure you’re fully protected today.
Have you been injured in an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured motorist? Learn more here and contact The Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec for a free consultation.