Liability Car Insurance Texas: What You Need to Know

As a driver in Texas, you are legally required to have liability car insurance. Liability insurance protects you financially if you are responsible for an accident that causes damage or injury to another person or their property. In this article, we will explore the basics of liability car insurance in Texas, including the coverage and limits required by law, what to do after an accident, and frequently asked questions.

What is Liability Car Insurance?

Liability car insurance is a type of coverage that pays for damages to other people and their property if you are at fault for an accident. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle or injuries to yourself or passengers in your car. Liability insurance is required by law in Texas to protect both drivers and their passengers from financial loss.

There are two types of liability coverage: bodily injury liability and property damage liability. Bodily injury liability pays for the medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering of people injured in an accident you caused. Property damage liability pays for the repair or replacement of other people’s property, such as their car or home, that was damaged in the accident.

What are the Coverage and Limits Required by Law in Texas?

In Texas, the minimum coverage required by law is 30/60/25. This means that your liability policy must have:

It is important to note that these are only the minimum required coverages, and many experts recommend getting higher limits to better protect yourself in case of an accident.

What Should You Do After an Accident?

If you are involved in an accident, the first thing you should do is check for injuries and call 911 if necessary. Even if no one is injured, you should still call the police to report the accident. This will create an official record of the accident, which can be important when filing an insurance claim.

Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver, as well as any witnesses to the accident. Take pictures of the damage to both cars and the surrounding area, if possible. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident and file a claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if I don’t have liability car insurance in Texas?

A: Driving without liability car insurance in Texas can result in fines, license suspension, and even impoundment of your car. It is also illegal and can leave you financially responsible for any damages or injuries you cause in an accident.

Q: Does liability car insurance cover theft or damage to my own car?

A: No, liability car insurance only covers damages or injuries you cause to other people and their property. If you want coverage for theft, damage to your own car, or injuries to yourself or passengers in your car, you will need additional coverage such as collision or comprehensive insurance.

Q: Can I still be sued if I have liability car insurance?

A: Yes, liability car insurance does not protect you from being sued. It only provides financial protection up to the limits of your policy. If you are sued and the damages exceed your policy limits, you may be personally responsible for paying the difference.

Q: How much does liability car insurance cost in Texas?

A: The cost of liability car insurance in Texas varies depending on your driving record, age, location, and other factors. The minimum required coverage is usually the cheapest option, but experts recommend getting higher limits for better protection. You can compare rates from different insurance companies to find the best price for the coverage you need.

Q: Can I add someone else to my liability car insurance policy?

A: Yes, you can add other drivers to your liability car insurance policy. However, their driving record and other factors may affect the cost of your insurance. It is important to inform your insurance company of any other drivers who will be using your car regularly to ensure that they are covered in case of an accident.

Conclusion

Liability car insurance is a legal requirement in Texas that protects you financially if you are responsible for an accident that causes damage or injury to others. Understanding the coverage and limits required by law, what to do after an accident, and frequently asked questions can help you make informed decisions about your car insurance coverage. Remember to always drive safely and have adequate insurance coverage to protect yourself and others on the road.