According to 2019 data from the Insurance Information Institute, 8.3% of drivers are uninsured in the state of Texas. This means it is very possible for you to get into an accident with someone who does not have insurance. It is important to know what steps you should take after an accident to ensure that you don’t become responsible for damage that you did not cause.

Check Your Insurance Policy

After you get into an accident, you always need to check your insurance policy. Most insurance plans come with uninsured motorist coverage, which helps cover injuries if you get into an accident with someone who doesn’t have an insurance policy. This type of coverage usually covers bodily injuries, but does not cover property damage. You may have to purchase a separate type of insurance to cover damage to your vehicle, which is called uninsured/underinsured motorist property damage coverage.

What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is a type of coverage used when a motorist does not have liability insurance, or they don’t have enough. It covers you and the passengers of your vehicle for medical bills and pain and suffering. 

In some states, uninsured motorist coverage is required, but in Texas you are allowed to deny this type of coverage. It can be a smart idea to purchase more coverage than the minimum amount so that you are extra protected if you get into an accident with an uninsured motorist.

Once you find out if you have this type of coverage, your insurance company will help you figure out how to file your claim.

Document Damage

It is important to take pictures of the damage to your vehicle or your injuries after the accident so you can use it when you file your insurance claim, or in court if you decide to file a personal injury claim in Texas. A lawyer can help you recover the compensation you deserve in court if you were injured as a result of someone else’s negligence. The evidence that you collect will be crucial to your case. 

Can You File a Lawsuit?

After getting into an accident with someone who doesn’t have insurance, you are likely wondering if you can file a lawsuit. If you believe you have sufficient evidence to prove that the uninsured driver caused the accident and has responsibility for your injuries, you may have a chance at winning a lawsuit. Consulting with a lawyer can help you straighten out the details of your case and determine how to proceed. Texas car accident lawyers have a deep understanding of how to help you win your case and will be able to give you the advice you need.

Though filing a lawsuit is an option, it is most likely that having your insurance handle the damage will get you a better solution, depending on the severity of your situation.