Texas auto insurance

Protect what matters most with Texas auto insurance

In recent years, Texas has seen unprecedented growth, with the United States Census Bureau estimating the Texas population to be around 30 million people. Since there is limited public transit around the state, most residents must own a personal vehicle to get to work, school or other obligations. This leads to more vehicles on the roadways, increased traffic congestion and an increased risk of having a traffic accident. Having Texas auto insurance can provide compensation for some of the costs associated with an accident.

Potential damage with car accidents

While there is always a risk of an accident when traveling, the state of Texas has two of the most hazardous roads in the country. Interstate 45 is the most dangerous road in the United States, while Interstate 35 ranks high on the list as well.

Car accidents often cause injuries to both parties involved in a crash. According to 2021 reporting, the statistics on injury and death in Texas are alarming. This list highlights the seriousness of traffic accidents:

•       One death occurs every hour and 57 minutes in Texas.

•       One injury occurs every two minutes and 12 seconds.

•       One recordable crash occurs every 57 seconds.

There is a serious risk of traveling across the great Lone Star State without the right protection. For those who feel quality coverage is unaffordable, VIU by HUB offers the tools you need to compare Texas auto insurance quotes and coverage options across multiple carriers.

Minimum Texas auto insurance requirements

Because of the expenses of car repair or medical bills, many states establish minimum coverage requirements. Texas requires drivers to show proof of financial responsibility for any accident they cause, usually in the form of liability insurance.

Liability Coverage

When you are the at-fault driver, this policy pays for the repair or replacement of the other driver’s car as well as any medical bills incurred by the driver or passengers in the vehicle. Liability insurance could cover some additional expenses, such as death and funeral expenses if the accident were to be fatal. Texas auto insurance law requires 30/60/25 coverage:

•       $30,000 per person in injury coverage.

•       $60,000 total per accident for injury coverage.

•       $25,000 for Property Damage.

Although this is the minimum required, you should consider increasing the limits to address the possibility of a multi-vehicle accident or additional passengers in the other car. By getting an insurance quote through VIU by HUB, you can find out which policy provides your limits at the lowest cost.

Average cost for Texas auto insurance

Texas residents live in the top 15th most expensive state for car insurance, with drivers paying nearly $41 more per month in premiums than those in other states. The yearly average for Texas residents is $1,800 per year, which is 25% higher than the rest of the nation.

Auto insurance will cost around $265 a month. Due to the diversity of Texas geography and population density, auto insurance costs can vary widely by carrier, from the cheapest option of one national carrier, which offers rates as low as $170 per month, to other insurers whose auto insurance quotes are all well over $300 per month.

Factors affecting Texas car insurance

By comparing rates across insurers, drivers can be proactive in looking for the most affordable protection. It’s also possible to control premium rates through variable factors. The following are influencing factors that affect insurance rates:

•       Age of the main driver and other listed drivers.

•       Geographic region.

•       Driver’s credit score.

•       Age, make, model and safety features of the vehicle.

•       Driving history and record.

•       Coverage limits and deductibles.

Those living near a large city will pay higher insurance rates because of the greater likelihood of accidents within densely populated areas when compared to rural areas. Drivers in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Fort Worth and Austin will have the highest rates across the state. Utilizing discounts, but also having a safe driving record and excellent credit score can help bring premium costs down.

Optional Texas auto insurance coverage

In addition to having the minimum requirements in car coverage, you can add additional protection. With our fast and easy rate comparison across a variety of insurance types and carriers, you can figure out which are best for your budget. Here are a few to consider:

Uninsured (UM) or Underinsured Motorist (UIM)

While state law does not require drivers to purchase this coverage, the law requires that every insurance company offer it to their auto insurance clients. This coverage pays for expenses when you are hit by an at-fault driver who either didn’t carry insurance (uninsured) or didn’t carry enough insurance to address all the medical bills or car repair costs (underinsured).

Collision Coverage

Collision Coverage addresses car repairs if you get into a car accident or collide with another object, such as a tree. Most lenders will require car owners to purchase this type of Texas auto insurance coverage, as it will pay out either the repair or replacement amount, the actual value of the vehicle or the amount chosen for the insurance declaration. Our VIU by HUB comparison tool highlights reasonable value or coverage expectations for your vehicle and allows you to make an informed choice.

Comprehensive Coverage

Unfortunately, vehicle damage can happen when a falling tree limb hits the windshield or when someone intentionally vandalizes a car. Unpredictable weather patterns are all too common in Texas, and excessive rain, hurricanes and flooding are reasons for concern throughout the state. Comprehensive Coverage pays for vehicle repair or replacement when a collision isn’t to blame for the damage.

Medical Payments

Car accidents can cause both minor and serious injuries, with either situation costing you money for treatment. This type of coverage generally covers injuries that occur to you or your passengers during a car accident or that you experience while riding in someone else’s car. They may also cover injuries received from a vehicle accident you are in while biking or walking down the street.

This information is intended for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice.

Sources:

Only In Your State

TXDOT

Pro-Care Medical Centers

The Texas Tribune

Comptroller.Texas.Gov

Texas Department of Insurance

Texas Department of Insurance