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.

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.

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

Steven Ray York

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.