At Attorney Dang – Accident Lawyers, we understand that dealing with car insurance can be a daunting task, especially after an accident. Most people are unfamiliar with the technicalities and legal language involved in insurance policies, which can lead to costly mistakes and insufficient coverage.

Our goal is to help you navigate this complex process, ensuring that you get the best protection and compensation possible. In this article, we will explain the importance of having car insurance in Texas, the steps to take in the event of an accident in Austin, and why it is more convenient to have the advice of car accident lawyers instead of trying to handle everything on your own.

Understanding the work of car insurance

Car insurance is a contract between a vehicle owner and an insurance company. This contract stipulates that the insurer will cover certain financial costs that may arise as a result of accidents, theft, or damage to the vehicle, in exchange for a periodic payment called a premium.

The main function of car insurance is to provide financial protection to both the driver and third parties involved in a traffic accident. Car insurance covers different aspects depending on the type of policy taken out. For example, a basic liability policy covers damages to third parties. That is, both material damages caused to other vehicles or properties and physical injuries to other people. On the other hand, a comprehensive coverage policy may include, in addition to civil liability, protection against damage to the insured vehicle itself, theft, vandalism and, in some cases, roadside assistance and medical expenses coverage for the driver and passengers.

What does auto insurance coverage typically include?

Auto insurance coverage can vary considerably depending on the type of policy and the insurer, but generally includes the following components:

• Civil liability: This is one of the most basic and mandatory coverages in many countries. It covers material and personal damages that the driver of the insured vehicle causes to third parties in an accident. This includes medical expenses, vehicle repairs and property damage.
• Property damage coverage: Protects the insured vehicle against damage caused by collisions, overturns or other accidents. Depending on the policy, it may cover both damage to the vehicle itself and damage caused by accidents with other vehicles or objects.
• Theft and vandalism: This coverage includes protection against theft of the insured vehicle and damage resulting from acts of vandalism. It can cover both total theft of the vehicle and theft of parts or accessories.
• Natural disaster coverage: Covers damage to the insured vehicle caused by natural phenomena such as floods, earthquakes, storms, hail, forest fires, among others.
• Medical Expenses: This coverage takes care of medical expenses for the driver and passengers of the insured vehicle in the event of an accident. It may include hospitalization expenses, surgeries, medical treatments, and ambulance services.
• Roadside Assistance: Provides help in the event that the insured vehicle is stranded due to mechanical problems, accidents, flat tires, lack of fuel or even loss of keys. This assistance may include towing services, minor on-site repairs and technical advice.
• Collision Coverage: Similar to property damage coverage, this specific protection covers damage to the insured vehicle resulting from collisions with other vehicles or objects.
• Traveler’s civil liability (theft from passengers): Some policies include protection against theft of personal belongings of passengers in the insured vehicle.

Texas Car Insurance Laws

In Texas, it is legally mandatory to have insurance to operate a vehicle. The law requires all drivers to maintain minimum liability coverage to cover costs associated with damages and injuries caused to third parties in the event of an accident.

The main reason for this obligation is to ensure that, in the event of an accident, drivers are able to cover the costs of property damage and personal injuries they may cause to other people. This protects both accident victims and drivers, ensuring that affected people receive adequate compensation and that drivers do not face overwhelming financial debts.

The obligation to have affordable car insurance is set forth in the Texas Transportation Code, specifically in Chapter 601, known as the Financial Responsibility Law. Under the law, the minimum liability coverage limits in Texas are:

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• $30,000 for bodily injury per person.
• $60,000 for total bodily injury per accident (if more than one person is injured).
• $25,000 for property damage.

This minimum coverage is commonly referred to as 30/60/25 and is the basic requirement that all drivers must meet. If a driver is stopped for a traffic violation or is involved in an accident, they will be required to show proof of valid insurance. Not having insurance can result in fines, suspension of the driver’s license, additional fees, and possible vehicle impoundment. It is advisable to periodically check official sources for any changes in amounts and requirements.

How to deal with car insurance?

Dealing with car insurance in the event of an accident in Austin involves following a number of important steps to ensure that the claim process is handled correctly and that appropriate compensation is received. Here is a detailed guide on what to do once the accident has occurred and everyone is out of danger:

• Exchange information: Collect relevant information from all parties involved in the accident, including:
  • Names and contact information of drivers
  • Driver’s license numbers
  • Vehicle registration plates
  • Insurance policy information (company and policy number)
  • Vehicle description (make, model, color)
• Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene from multiple angles, making sure to capture damage to all vehicles, the position of the vehicles, license plates, and any other relevant evidence, such as road signs or skid marks.
• Contact the police: The police may write an accident report, which will be important for your insurance claim.
• Notify your insurer: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide all details and follow their instructions to start the claim process. Some insurers allow you to report accidents and send photos through their mobile apps or websites.

Is it a good idea to negotiate your car insurance policy on your own?

Negotiating your auto insurance policy on your own may seem like a way to save money and maintain direct control of the process. However, there are several disadvantages to doing so without the help of an expert legal firm. Insurance policies are filled with technical and legal terms that can be confusing. Without the proper knowledge, you may not fully understand your policy’s coverages, exclusions, and conditions, which can result in insufficient protection. Additionally, without proper guidance, it’s easy to make mistakes when selecting coverages or handling claims, which could cost you money and complicate the resolution of future problems.

There are numerous advantages to turning to an expert law firm. Insurance lawyers have a deep understanding of the applicable laws and regulations, allowing them to correctly interpret policies and ensure that you receive the best possible coverage. An expert law firm can also identify areas where you could increase your coverage without incurring excessive costs and will help you maximize any compensation in the event of a claim. Additionally, if you need to file a claim, a lawyer can handle the process on your behalf, ensuring that all the correct procedures are followed and that the claim is resolved fairly and efficiently.

Attorney Dang – Accident Lawyers, experts in negotiating compensation with vehicle insurance

At Abogado Dang – Accident Lawyers, we are committed to protecting your rights and ensuring that you receive the fair treatment you deserve from insurance companies. Handling the negotiation of an auto insurance policy on your own may seem like a simple option, but the drawbacks and risks associated with it are significant.

You don’t have to deal with your auto insurance on your own. We’re here to help. If you’ve suffered injuries from a car accident, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our law firm can handle your auto insurance so you can focus on getting back on your feet with your family. Call us today, schedule your free consultation, and let’s give the insurance companies a BANG!

Information verified by lawyer Loc Dang

Loc Dang is a founder and member of our legal team. In this blog, Attorney Dang shares his expertise to guide accident victims.