Last Updated on June 17, 2025 by Beltz Law Group
Beltz Law Group
Protecting Yourself on Texas Roads: Understanding Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Contact The Beltz Law Group for Accident Representation: 214-321-4105
Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, but the financial fallout can be equally devastating, especially if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. This article, inspired by a real-world case handled by The Beltz Law Group, aims to highlight the critical importance of Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage in Texas and encourage drivers to protect themselves adequately.
The Harsh Reality: A Motorcycle Accident Scenario
Imagine a scenario like one our firm recently handled: A client, enjoying a new Harley Davidson, was struck by a drunk driver in Fort Worth. The impact was severe, leading to the client spending over two weeks in the hospital with extensive injuries. While the immediate concern is recovery, a crucial question quickly arises: Who will cover the mounting medical bills and other damages?
In this particular case, the at-fault drunk driver not only lacked a driver’s license but also had no insurance whatsoever. While the drunk driver faced arrest, this offers little solace to the injured party facing significant financial burdens. This tragic situation underscores a common problem on Texas roads: a significant number of drivers operate without adequate, or any, insurance.
The Perils of Minimum Liability Coverage
Accident Lawyer – Jeffrey Beltz
Many drivers, seeking to save money, opt for the minimum liability coverage required by Texas law. While this fulfills the legal requirement, it offers very limited protection. Minimum liability coverage in Texas typically covers damages you cause to others, with limits often set at $30,000 per injured person.
The critical flaw in relying solely on minimum liability, especially for motorcycle riders, is that it provides no coverage for your own injuries or damages if the accident is not your fault, and the other driver is uninsured or underinsured. For motorcyclists, this is particularly risky. In a collision between a car and a motorcycle, the motorcycle rider almost invariably sustains the more severe injuries.
When There’s No Insurance: An Uncollectible Judgment
When an at-fault driver has no insurance, pursuing compensation becomes incredibly challenging. You can sue the driver and obtain a judgment, a legal document stating they are responsible for your damages (e.g., $200,000). However, if that driver possesses no assets, this judgment becomes “uncollectible” – effectively a piece of paper with no real financial value. This leaves the injured party responsible for their own substantial medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
This is where the crucial role of Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage comes into play.
The Lifeline: Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage
Car Accident Attorney Dallas
UM/UIM coverage is designed to protect you in situations where the at-fault driver has insufficient or no insurance. It acts as a safety net, stepping in to cover your expenses that the other driver’s (or lack thereof) insurance would have covered.
Why is it so vital, especially in Texas? Texas has a significant problem with uninsured drivers. Every day, you share the road with individuals who may not carry the required insurance. If one of these drivers causes an accident resulting in your injury, UM/UIM coverage can prevent financial ruin.
Understanding the Two Components:
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Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage: Most accidents are covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance. However, their policy limits might be too low to cover the full extent of your injuries. For instance, if your medical bills reach $60,000, but the at-fault driver only has the minimum $30,000 liability coverage, UIM coverage on your own policy can cover the remaining $30,000. It essentially bridges the gap between the at-fault driver’s insufficient coverage and your actual damages. You elect the amount of UIM coverage you want, often up to $300,000 or more, for a relatively small additional premium. Given the prevalence of minimum policies, opting for robust UIM coverage is a wise decision.
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Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: This coverage is activated when the at-fault driver has no insurance whatsoever. In such cases, your UM coverage steps in to cover the damages that the uninsured driver should have been responsible for, up to your policy limits. This prevents you from being left with the entire financial burden of an accident caused by someone who broke the law by driving without insurance.
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The Cost of Foresight vs. The Cost of Neglect
While insurance agents should ideally explain the importance of UM/UIM coverage, many clients, seeking the “cheapest policy,” may inadvertently choose inadequate protection. For just a few extra dollars a month, you can significantly increase your UM/UIM coverage, potentially saving you from bankruptcy in the event of a serious accident.
The real-world case mentioned earlier highlights this stark reality: because the client only purchased minimum liability coverage and no UM/UIM, they were left with the immense burden of uncovered medical expenses. While the legal team is exploring other avenues, such as pursuing a “dram shop” claim against a bar that may have overserved the drunk driver, this is a more complex and uncertain path than simply having adequate personal insurance.
Our Recommendation: Protect Yourself Comprehensively
If you are a driver in Texas, particularly if you ride a motorcycle, we strongly urge you to:
- Prioritize UM/UIM coverage: Do not settle for the bare minimum liability.
- Purchase as much UM/UIM coverage as you can afford: The cost is minimal compared to the potential financial devastation of a severe accident.
- Understand your policy: Talk to your insurance agent and ensure you fully comprehend what your policy covers and, more importantly, what it doesn’t.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Invest in comprehensive insurance coverage, especially UM/UIM, to safeguard your financial future and well-being on Texas roads. If you’ve been in an accident and have questions about your coverage or legal options, contact The Beltz Law Group today.
