After a car accident, you expect to exchange insurance information with the other driver and file a claim for your damages. However, what happens if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough coverage to pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs? Unfortunately, this is a reality many Houston drivers face, as nearly 15% of Texas motorists are uninsured or underinsured. If you find yourself in this situation, an uninsured motorist accident lawyer in Houston can help you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us online or give us a call at 281-643-2000 for a free consultation.
Understanding the Difference: Uninsured vs. Underinsured Motorists
What is an Uninsured Motorist Accident?
An uninsured motorist accident occurs when a driver without any car insurance causes a collision. Texas law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance, but many still drive without it. If you are injured in an accident caused by an uninsured driver, you may need to file an uninsured motorist claim with your own insurance company to recover damages.
Even if you have uninsured motorist coverage, your insurance company may try to minimize your payout. A Houston uninsured motorist accident lawyer can help negotiate a fair settlement and ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
What is an Underinsured Motorist Accident?
An underinsured motorist accident occurs when the at-fault driver has insurance, but their policy limits are too low to cover the full extent of your damages. Texas requires drivers to carry at least:
- $30,000 per person for bodily injury
- $60,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 for property damage
However, in serious accidents, these minimum coverage amounts are often not enough to cover extensive medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost income. In these cases, you may need to file an underinsured motorist claim with your own insurance company to make up the difference.
How The Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec Can Help After an Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Accident
At Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec, we understand the complexities of uninsured and underinsured motorist claims. Our legal team aggressively pursues all available options to secure compensation for our clients, including filing uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) claims or taking legal action against negligent drivers. With extensive experience handling these challenging cases, our Houston uninsured motorist accident lawyers are prepared to fight for your rights.
Challenges in Dealing with Insurance Companies
Even if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, your own insurance company may try to minimize your payout. Many policyholders assume their insurer will act in their best interest, but in reality, insurers are focused on protecting their bottom line. Our Houston uninsured motorist lawyers know the tactics these companies use and will work tirelessly to negotiate a fair settlement or take your case to court if necessary.
What Are Your Legal Options After an Uninsured Motorist Accident?
There are two primary ways to seek compensation after an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver:
- Filing a claim with your insurance company: If you have UM/UIM coverage, you can file a claim to recover damages.
- Suing the at-fault driver: If the driver has assets, legal action may be a viable option.
Why You Need a Houston Uninsured Motorist Lawyer for Insurance Claims
Many drivers assume that dealing with their own insurance company will be straightforward. Unfortunately, even your own insurer may try to reduce your payout or deny your claim. A skilled uninsured motorist lawyer in Houston can help you navigate the claims process and negotiate a higher settlement than you might obtain on your own.
Taking Legal Action Against the At-Fault Driver
Filing a lawsuit against the uninsured or underinsured driver may be an option if they have the financial means to compensate you. If they fail to pay a court-ordered judgment, legal measures—such as suspending their Texas driver’s license—can be taken. Our Houston underinsured motorist lawyers can assess whether legal action is the best course for your case.
Proving Negligence in a Texas Uninsured Motorist Accident
To successfully recover compensation, you must prove that the other driver was negligent. Common causes of uninsured motorist accidents include:
Our legal team conducts thorough investigations to build the strongest case possible on your behalf.
Compensation Available in Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Cases
Our experienced underinsured motorist attorneys will fight to recover full compensation for damages such as:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Every case is unique, and we work closely with clients to ensure they receive the maximum compensation available.
Contact Our Houston Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist Accident Lawyers at the Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec Today!
If you’ve been injured in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, don’t face the legal and financial challenges alone. Our skilled Houston uninsured motorist accident lawyers are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us online today for a free consultation or call 281-643-2000 to speak with an attorney now.