Every driver in Texas must carry minimum auto insurance, but minimum coverage is designed to protect other people — not you. Understanding what your state requires, what it leaves out, and what gaps exist in your own protection is essential before you are in an accident.
Texas requires all registered vehicle owners to carry liability coverage at a minimum. Liability pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others — it does not cover your own injuries or vehicle damage. Minimum limits are often far below what a serious accident can cost.
Liability limits are expressed as three numbers, such as 25/50/25. The first is maximum per-person bodily injury (thousands), the second is total bodily injury per accident, the third is property damage. If your limits are exhausted, you are personally liable for the remainder.
UM/UIM coverage protects you when you are hit by a driver with no insurance or inadequate insurance. Despite legal requirements, a significant percentage of drivers on Texas roads are uninsured. UM/UIM pays your medical bills and damages that the at-fault driver cannot cover.
Collision pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident regardless of fault. Comprehensive pays for non-collision losses: theft, vandalism, fire, hail, flooding, and animal strikes. If you have a loan or lease, your lender almost certainly requires both.
The Insurance Professor is trained on Texas insurance law and regulation. Ask about your policy, your claim, or your rights.
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Regulatory resource: Texas Department of Insurance — https://www.tdi.texas.gov. The Insurance Professor provides education only — not legal or insurance advice.