Texas has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the country. According to recent estimates from the Texas Department of Insurance, nearly one in eight drivers in the state is uninsured. If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, uninsured motorist coverage ensures you aren’t left covering the costs alone. Without this coverage, you could be responsible for thousands of dollars in damages, even when the accident wasn’t your fault.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is a type of auto insurance policy designed to protect you if you’re hit by an uninsured driver. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage helps cover costs when the at-fault driver’s liability insurance isn’t enough to pay for damages. Texas law requires insurance companies to offer this coverage, but drivers can reject it in writing. Given the high number of uninsured drivers in the state, carrying this coverage is a smart financial decision.
What Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Pay For?
Having uninsured motorist insurance in Texas ensures you’re not left paying out of pocket after an accident. This coverage can help with:
- Vehicle repairs – Pays for damage to your car when the at-fault driver lacks insurance.
- Medical expenses – Covers hospital bills, doctor visits, and rehabilitation costs.
- Lost wages – Provides compensation if injuries prevent you from working.
- Pain and suffering – Helps cover emotional and physical distress caused by the accident.
- Hit-and-run accidents – Covers damages if the driver who hit you flees the scene.
Why Is This Coverage Important in Texas?
Texas has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the country. According to recent estimates, nearly one in eight drivers in the state is uninsured. If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, uninsured motorist coverage ensures you aren’t left covering the costs alone. Without this coverage, you could be responsible for thousands of dollars in damages, even when the accident wasn’t your fault.
What Are the Consequences of Not Having Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Without uninsured motorist coverage, you could be left covering all expenses after an accident caused by an uninsured driver. Vehicle repairs, medical bills, and lost wages can quickly add up, leaving you in financial distress. While you may have the option to sue the at-fault driver, recovering damages can be difficult if they lack assets or income. Instead of taking that risk, having uninsured motorist coverage ensures you’re protected no matter who is on the road.
How Much Uninsured Motorist Coverage Do You Need?
Texas law requires insurers to offer at least $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage, plus $25,000 for property damage. However, many drivers choose higher coverage limits to ensure they’re fully protected. Higher limits can be especially beneficial if you have a newer vehicle or do not have the savings to cover unexpected expenses. You can read more about Texas car insurance requirements here.
Stay Protected on the Road
Car accidents are stressful enough without worrying about whether the other driver has insurance. Uninsured motorist coverage in Texas gives you peace of mind, knowing you’re financially protected. If you’re unsure whether you have this coverage, now is the perfect time to review your auto insurance policy and make any necessary updates.
Get a Quote for Uninsured Motorist Coverage
At Calyco Surety Bonds & More, we help Texas drivers find the right auto insurance policy to fit their needs, budget, and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for basic coverage or full protection, we can expertly guide you through the best available options. Contact us today for a free quote and drive with confidence, knowing you’re fully protected from uninsured and underinsured drivers on Texas roads.
1. Is uninsured motorist coverage required in Texas?
No, uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is not required in Texas. However, insurance companies are required to offer it, and drivers must reject it in writing if they choose not to carry it. Given the high number of uninsured drivers in the state, having UM coverage is a wise financial decision.
2. Will uninsured motorist coverage pay for a hit-and-run accident?
Yes, uninsured motorist coverage can help cover damages if you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident. If the at-fault driver flees the scene and cannot be identified, UM coverage can pay for vehicle repairs, medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs.
3. How much uninsured motorist coverage should I get?
Texas law requires insurers to offer at least $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage. However, many drivers opt for higher coverage limits to ensure full protection, especially if they have a newer car or limited savings to cover unexpected expenses.