What Corpus Christi Drivers Need to Know About Uninsured Motorist Claims in Texas

Getting into a car accident is stressful enough, but when the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, it can make matters even worse. Texas law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, but many fail to do so, leaving others financially vulnerable in a crash. 

If you’re injured in an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver in Corpus Christi, knowing your legal options is essential. Uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist coverage can provide the compensation you need when the at-fault driver’s insurance falls short. 

Here’s what every Corpus Christi driver should know about uninsured motorist claims in Texas.

Texas Insurance Requirements and Uninsured Motorists

Texas law mandates that all drivers carry minimum liability insurance to cover damages in the event of an accident. The state’s minimum requirements include:

• $30,000 per person for bodily injury
• $60,000 per accident for bodily injury (if multiple people are injured)
• $25,000 for property damage

Despite these legal requirements, many Texas drivers still operate vehicles without insurance. According to the Insurance Information Institute, nearly 8.3% of Texas drivers are uninsured, creating a significant risk for insured drivers involved in accidents.

How Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage Works

Texas insurance providers must offer uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to policyholders, though drivers can opt out in writing. If you carry this coverage, it protects you in cases where:

• The at-fault driver has no insurance (uninsured motorist claim)
• The at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages (underinsured motorist claim)
• You’re involved in a hit-and-run accident

Filing an Uninsured Motorist Claim in Texas

If you’re involved in a crash with an uninsured driver in Corpus Christi, you must take certain steps to protect your claim.

• Call the police immediately: A police report is crucial in documenting that the other driver lacks insurance and is at fault.
• Gather evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. If possible, get witness contact information.
• Seek medical attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries worsen over time.
• Notify your insurance provider: Inform your insurer that you’ll be filing an uninsured motorist claim under your UM/UIM coverage.
• Consult a car accident attorney: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Having an experienced attorney can help ensure you receive full compensation.

Common Issues With Uninsured Motorist Claims

Even though UM/UIM coverage is designed to protect you, insurance companies don’t always make the claims process easy. Some common challenges include:

• Claim Denials: Insurers may argue that your policy doesn’t cover the accident or that the uninsured driver wasn’t fully at fault.
• Low Settlement Offers: Insurance adjusters may offer a settlement far lower than your actual damages.
• Delayed Payments: Some companies stall or delay processing UM/UIM claims to avoid immediate payouts.

How an Attorney Can Help With Your UM/UIM Claim

Navigating an uninsured motorist claim without legal help can be overwhelming. Insurance companies are not on your side; their goal is to pay as little as possible. Hiring a Corpus Christi car accident lawyer can significantly improve your chances of receiving the full compensation you deserve.

An attorney can help by:

• Reviewing your policy to confirm your UM/UIM coverage
• Gathering evidence to strengthen your claim
• Negotiating with the insurance company to ensure a fair settlement
• Filing a lawsuit if necessary to fight for your rightful compensation

What Damages Can You Recover in an Uninsured Motorist Claim?

If your UM/UIM claim is successful, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working
• Pain and suffering for physical and emotional distress
• Property damage to repair or replace your vehicle
• Wrongful death damages if a loved one was killed in an accident with an uninsured driver

What If I Don’t Have UM/UIM Coverage?

If you opted out of UM/UIM coverage, you may still have options for recovering compensation. You could:

• Sue the at-fault driver personally: This is often difficult, as uninsured drivers typically lack the financial resources to cover damages.
• Explore other insurance options. Your policy may include Medical Payments Coverage or Personal Injury Protection, which can help cover medical expenses.
• Seek legal advice– An attorney can review your case and explore other potential sources of compensation.

Get Help With Your Uninsured Motorist Claim in Corpus Christi

If you were injured in an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver, you don’t have to face the insurance battle alone. The Edwards Law Firm is dedicated to helping injured drivers in Corpus Christi get the compensation they deserve. 

Our experienced Corpus Christi car accident lawyers know how to handle uninsured motorist claims and will fight to protect your rights. Call us today at (361) 320-6752 to schedule a free consultation, and let us help you navigate your claim with confidence.