Think You Can Get Away Without Having Car Insurance?

Many people in Texas would likely choose to use their earnings on delicious local barbecue instead of paying for car insurance, but not having coverage can lead to serious financial trouble. In Texas, driving without insurance is against the law and can lead to fines, extra charges on your license, and higher insurance rates later on, which means you’ll have even less money for that tasty barbecue. It’s important to understand the legal requirements for car insurance in Texas and the potential consequences of not following them.

How much coverage is required in Texas?

In Texas, it’s required by law for all drivers to have a certain level of car insurance to drive legally. The state has set specific minimum coverage amounts, which are known as the 30/60/25 rule. This means that drivers need to have at least $30,000 in bodily injury liability for each person injured in an accident, $60,000 for total bodily injury liability per accident, and $25,000 for property damage liability for any damage caused in an accident.

Car insurance companies are required by law to provide options for uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, as well as personal injury protection (known as “PIP”) when you buy a policy. While you can choose to decline these coverages, you need to put that decision in writing.

How much is a “no insurance” ticket?

The cost of a ticket for driving without insurance in Texas varies based on your past record of similar offenses. If it’s your first time getting caught, you’ll face a fine of $350, but if you’ve had previous tickets for no insurance, the fines can rise to as much as $1,000 for each additional offense. However, receiving a ticket for not having insurance is just the start of your troubles. Along with the fines and extra fees, those who repeatedly offend may face harsher consequences, such as having their vehicle towed, suspension of their vehicle or license registration, the requirement to obtain an SR-22 from an insurance provider, and even the possibility of spending up to six months in jail if you cause an accident while uninsured.

Severe penalties for being in an accident while uninsured.

Experiencing an accident without insurance can lead to serious financial repercussions that may haunt you for years. If you are found to be at fault and lack insurance, the people affected by the accident have the right to take legal action against you. This could result in the court seizing your home, retirement savings, or other valuable possessions to pay for the medical bills, property damage, and legal fees of the other party involved.

Another major drawback of being involved in an accident without insurance is that you may have to obtain an SR-22 for your insurance policy. This document serves as a link between your insurance company and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), confirming that you have the minimum liability coverage mandated by law. In Texas, if you get a ticket for driving without insurance, you will need to maintain this SR-22 for two years. If there is any gap in your coverage during this time, it can lead to your driver’s license being suspended, along with a $100 fee to get your license reinstated.

IF YOU’VE BEEN INJURED BY AN UNINSURED DRIVER, CONTACT THE LAW OFFICE OF BRIAN BRUNSON TODAY.

Named one of the “Best Car Accident Lawyers in Dallas” by Expertise.com, Brian Brunson is a Dallas personal injury attorney who is dedicated to helping clients who have suffered a car, truck, or motorcycle injury through the negligent or wrongful conduct of other drivers. In addition, his professionalism is unmatched and the firms’ client reviews speak for themselves.

We proudly serve the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding areas, our office supports the legal needs of a wide variety of clients. Let the Law Office of Brian Brunson be your advocate in your time of need and help you put your life back together. If we can’t win or settle your case, you don’t pay a dime! We know it can be daunting to take that first step after you’ve been hurt. Contact Brian Brunson today via email or call us toll-free at 1-844-41-WRECK. We can help, when no one else will.