Why You Should Check Your Policy Today to Make Sure You Are Fully Covered
Few people have ever looked at the declaration page of their auto insurance policy, and even fewer have read through the fine print. Most Texans carry the minimum insurance limits required by law, but there are additional coverages that could help you after an accident. Reviewing your auto policy now can save you thousands of dollars in the future.
At the Karam Law Office, we provide fierce, dedicated representation for individuals who have been hurt in car accidents throughout Texas. Our experienced legal team has helped numerous clients obtain the maximum compensation allowed after a devastating accident. If you were injured or lost a loved one in an auto accident, contact our office at (832) 859-8453 for a free consultation.
Insurance Requirements in Texas
Texas requires that drivers carry auto liability insurance to cover another driver’s losses if they cause an accident.
All drivers must carry minimum liability coverage of 30/60/25:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person;
- $60,000 for bodily injury per accident; and
- $25,000 for property damage per accident.
Unfortunately, with the increased cost of medical bills, wages, and vehicle repairs, these minimums may not be enough to cover all of your damages. Too often, drivers are caught off guard after car accidents with serious injuries. Even if the at fault driver has insurance, it may be insufficient to cover their losses.
How Can I Protect Myself in a Car Accident?
One way to protect yourself in a car accident is to get uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) motorist coverage added to your insurance policy. UM/UIM motorist coverage kicks in when an at-fault driver’s liability insurance is insufficient to cover your losses after an accident.
UM/UIM motorist coverage is particularly important if you have an expensive vehicle or if the accident results in severe, life-threatening injuries. All insurance providers are required to provide you with this coverage; if you choose to decline it, you must do so in writing. While it is not required to carry UM/UIM coverage, it is probably one of the most important add-ons to your policy. A few extra dollars a month can make a huge difference down the road.
What Is the Difference Between UM/UIM?
UM/UIM motorist coverage is typically bundled together, but it is actually referring to two different types of insurance. Uninsured (UM) motorist coverage protects you in the event that you are hit by an uninsured motorist. It also provides coverage in the event that you are involved in an accident with a hit-and-run driver.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, over 12% of drivers are uninsured. That means that approximately 1 in 8 drivers does not have an insurance policy to provide coverage in the event that they cause an accident.
Underinsured (UIM) motorist coverage kicks in if the at-fault driver’s liability policy was not adequate to cover all of your losses, including your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, loss of future earning capacity, and more.
Do I Need an Attorney After an Accident?
If you haven’t checked your auto policy to make sure that you have UM/UIM coverage, do it now. If you are involved in an auto accident resulting in injury, it is generally in your best interest to consult with an attorney.
Insurance companies are notorious for downplaying injuries or denying coverage. An attorney can help ensure that your claim settles for the full limits under all applicable policies. Without the help of a qualified lawyer, you may not receive the financial recovery that you need.
Talk to an Attorney Today
Were you recently injured in a car accident? Contact the Karam Law Office at (832) 859-8453 to talk about your legal options. Our legal team will fight hard to get you the most money possible after your accident.
We know Texas law and are not afraid to go after insurance companies to get the settlements our clients deserve. All consultations are free and without obligation to retain our services. There are no fees unless we win. Call today to get started.
