Is Texas a No-Fault State?

If you’ve been in a car accident in Texas, you might be wondering about something called “no-fault” insurance. It’s important to know that Texas is NOT a no-fault state. This means you must seek compensation for your injuries from the driver who was at fault for your accident when possible.

A Dripping Springs injury lawyer can help you in proving fault, gathering necessary evidence, and negotiating with other drivers’ insurance companies to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

What Is the Difference Between At-Fault and No-Fault States?

States have different rules about who pays for damages after a car accident. There are two main systems: at-fault and no-fault.

In at-fault states (like Texas):

• The person who caused the accident is responsible for paying for the damages.
• If you’re hurt, you can sue the other driver for things like medical bills and lost wages.
• Insurance companies and lawyers investigate to figure out who was at fault.
• Your insurance rates might go up if you cause an accident.

In no-fault states:

• Each person’s own insurance initially pays for their injuries, no matter who caused the accident.
• You usually can’t sue the other driver unless your injuries are very serious.
• It’s often quicker to get money for your medical bills.
• Insurance rates in these states are sometimes higher.

Remember, Texas is an at-fault state. This means if someone else causes an accident that hurts you, their insurance should pay for your damages.

What Are the Different Types of Car Insurance Coverage?

There are several types of car insurance you can buy in Texas, some of which are mandatory:

• Liability Coverage which pays for damage you cause to other people or their property. It’s required in Texas.
• Collision Coverage pays for damage to your own car in an accident, even if you caused it.
• Comprehensive Coverage pays for damage to your car from things like theft, fire, or falling trees.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP) pays for your medical bills and lost wages, no matter who caused the accident.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage protects you if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough.
• Medical Payments Coverage pays for medical bills for you and your passengers, no matter who caused the accident.

What Are the Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Texas?

In Texas, you must have at least some car insurance. The minimum required is called “30/60/25 coverage.”

Here’s what that means:

• $30,000 for injuries to one person
• $60,000 total for all injuries in one accident
• $25,000 for property damage

This is only liability insurance. It pays for damage you cause to others, not to yourself or your car. Many experts say you should get more than the minimum if you can afford it.

Texas also requires insurance companies to offer you Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage. You can refuse these in writing, but it’s usually a good idea to have them.

How to Determine the Value of Your Car Accident Claim

In Texas, calculating the value of a car accident claim depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the cost of medical treatment, lost wages, and the degree of property damage. It’s essential to collect evidence, such as medical bills and repair estimates, to substantiate your claim.

Key components that influence the value of your claim include:

• Medical expenses: From emergency room visits to long-term physical therapy.
• Lost income: If you’ve had to take time off work due to injuries.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
• Property damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle.

In some cases, you may also be entitled to a diminished value claim, which compensates you for the loss in value of your vehicle after an accident, even after repairs have been completed. Learn more about diminished value claims from AutoInsurance.com.

A seasoned attorney can help evaluate the specifics of your case and ensure that all damages are accounted for, so you don’t settle for less than what you deserve.

“Justice isn’t a distant goal; it’s the real outcome we pursue for every client, every case, every day.”

Steven Ray York

Tips for Avoiding Jackknife Accidents in Texas

These accidents often involve large trucks and can lead to devastating collisions. A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of a truck swings out to the side, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab, resembling a folding knife. These accidents are dangerous because they can cause multi-vehicle collisions, particularly on highways like US-290 near Dripping Springs.

Here are some tips to avoid jackknife accidents:

• Maintain a safe distance from trucks, especially on wet or icy roads.
• Avoid sudden braking when driving near large trucks. This could cause the truck to lose control.
• Be mindful of blind spots around trucks. They often cannot see smaller vehicles, which increases the risk of an accident.
• Stay aware of truck speed and road conditions. High speeds on sharp turns are a leading cause of jackknifing incidents.

Drivers of large trucks are also responsible for ensuring their loads are secured and their vehicles properly maintained. However, if you’re injured in a jackknife accident, consulting a personal injury attorney is vital. Understanding the causes behind these accidents can help prevent them—FMCSA’s study highlights how speed, weather, and driver error contribute to large truck crashes.

What to Know About U-Turn Accidents in Texas

U-turns can be tricky, and in Texas, they are a common cause of accidents. In Texas, U-turn accidents often occur when drivers misjudge the speed of oncoming traffic or fail to check for vehicles in all lanes before making the turn. These errors can lead to rear-end collisions or T-bone accidents, which often result in significant vehicle damage and serious injuries.

When making a U-turn, always remember to:

• Check for signage: Ensure that U-turns are permitted at the intersection.
• Signal clearly: Let other drivers know your intentions to avoid confusion.
• Be patient: Wait until all lanes are clear before executing the U-turn.
• Look out for pedestrians: Many U-turn accidents involve pedestrians crossing the street.

If you are involved in a U-turn accident, determining liability is crucial, and Texas’ at-fault laws apply here. Working with an experienced lawyer can help prove that the other driver’s negligence caused the accident, protecting your right to compensation.

Contact a Dripping Springs Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been in a car accident in Texas, York Law APC car accident lawyers can help. We can explain your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, prove fault, calculate damages, and ensure you meet filing deadlines.

Contact us at (619) 233-1033 or online to secure the compensation you deserve.

This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Steven Ray York who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.