Auto Insurance Requirements In Texas
Texas Auto Insurance
According to Texas state law, all motorists applying for vehicle registration are required to have valid vehicle liability insurance. This insurance helps cover the costs of damages or injuries you may have inflicted on others if you are responsible for an accident. You must carry evidence of insurance in your vehicle at all times, and provide it to law enforcement and others involved in an accident with you upon request. While this is the minimum amount as required by law, drivers are strongly urged to consider higher limits. It’s also important to note that, while Texas law does not require you to have collision and comprehensive coverages, you may have to purchase both as part of your car’s finance or lease agreement.
Car Insurance Policy Requirements in the state of Texas
Texas law mandates that every automobile insurance policy sold in the state must have these minimum coverages:
- $30,000 of coverage for injuries per person
- $60,000 per accident
- $25,000 of coverage for property damage
Penalties and Violations
If you are caught driving without insurance in Texas, you’ll have to pay fines between $175-350. You’ll also have to pay an annual surcharge of $250 for three years in a row. This amounts to $925-$1,100 for your 1st offense. Uninsured drivers who are unable to demonstrate proof of financial responsibility could also face fines between $925 and $1,750.
If you receive a ticket for driving without insurance, the cost of an auto insurance policy will be higher as insurers consider you to be a higher risk driver. In addition, you may have to file an SR22 through your insurer to verify that you carry the state-required liability coverage.
You are also deemed fully responsible for any financial repercussions should you cause an accident and not have any insurance to cover the cost of the damage.
Choosing the insurance that’s actually right for you may seem overwhelming. It’s important to make sure you’re adhering to the law in whatever state you live. Don’t go it alone — have one of our friendly, knowledgeable agents help you cut through the nonsense, and get you the security you need while you’re out on the road. Getting the right insurance is just a few steps away.