Recent Changes in Houston Auto Insurance Laws: What You Need to Know

Houston, TX Insurance Laws: Updates from an Auto Accident Lawyer

In the ever-changing landscape of auto insurance laws, it is crucial for Houston drivers to stay informed about the recent updates that can significantly impact auto accident claims. As a dedicated auto accident lawyer at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, PLLC in Houston, Texas, I am here to guide you through the recent changes and explain how they may affect your rights and coverage options. Let’s delve into the essential updates and what you need to know to protect yourself on the roads of Houston and its surrounding areas.

Mandatory Liability Insurance Laws: Protecting Yourself and Others

Houston, TX insurance laws now require all drivers to carry a mandatory minimum liability insurance coverage. This change aims to ensure that injured parties have access to compensation in the event of an accident caused by a negligent driver. The minimum liability coverage includes bodily injury liability per person and per accident, as well as property damage liability.

Failure to comply with the mandatory liability insurance requirement can lead to serious consequences. Drivers caught without the minimum coverage could face fines, suspension of their driving privileges, and even the impounding of their vehicles. As an auto accident lawyer, I have seen cases where drivers’ lives were turned upside down due to these avoidable situations. To safeguard yourself and others on the road, make sure you have the appropriate liability insurance coverage.

Insurance Laws: Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage 

In response to the rising number of uninsured and underinsured drivers on Houston roads, auto insurance laws have been updated to encourage drivers to protect themselves. Uninsured motorist coverage helps you if you’re involved in an accident caused by a driver without insurance, while underinsured motorist coverage comes into play when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover your damages fully.

Having uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is crucial because it provides an additional layer of protection, especially when you encounter drivers who disregard the law by not carrying the mandatory liability insurance. In such unfortunate situations, your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage could be the lifeline you need to recover from an accident and get your life back on track. An experienced auto accident lawyer can help you understand the intricacies of these coverage options and ensure you have adequate protection.

Insurance Laws: The Role of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage is designed to provide immediate financial assistance to accident victims, regardless of who is at fault. Recent changes in Houston auto insurance laws have made PIP coverage mandatory, ensuring that you can quickly access medical treatment and cover other expenses related to the accident.

PIP coverage can prove to be a lifeline in the immediate aftermath of an accident. It can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and even essential services you might need due to your injuries. As an auto accident lawyer, I have witnessed clients benefiting greatly from PIP coverage, which helped them get the necessary medical attention and alleviate the financial burden after an accident. Familiarize yourself with the specifics of your PIP coverage and ensure you have the appropriate limits to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Insurance Laws: Comparative Fault Rules in Houston

Understanding the concept of comparative fault is crucial for accident victims seeking compensation in Houston. Texas follows the “modified comparative negligence” rule, which means that if you are partially responsible for the accident, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

Navigating the complexities of comparative fault can be challenging without the guidance of an experienced auto accident lawyer. Insurance companies may try to shift blame onto you to minimize their liability, ultimately affecting the compensation you deserve. Having a skilled auto accident lawyer by your side can ensure your rights are protected, and the true proportion of fault is determined fairly. Don’t let unfair practices deprive you of the compensation you need to recover from an accident; consult with an auto accident lawyer to safeguard your interests.

Insurance Laws: Diminished Value Claims

In the event of an accident, not only can your vehicle sustain physical damage, but it may also suffer a diminished value. Diminished value refers to the reduced resale value of a vehicle after repairs, even if the repairs were done flawlessly. Houston auto insurance laws now acknowledge diminished value claims, allowing accident victims to seek compensation for the reduction in their vehicle’s market value due to the accident.

Diminished value claims can be complex and require evidence to prove the decrease in your vehicle’s worth. Having an experienced auto accident lawyer on your side can significantly strengthen your claim and increase the likelihood of receiving fair compensation. Whether you own a brand-new vehicle or an older one, if you’ve been in an auto accident, consider exploring diminished value claims to protect your investment.

Statute of Limitations on Insurance Laws: Timely Filing of Claims

It’s important to be aware of the statute of limitations when pursuing an auto accident claim in Houston. In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those arising from auto accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. Failure to file your claim within this time frame can result in the forfeiture of your right to seek compensation.

The statute of limitations is a strict deadline that cannot be overlooked. If you delay or miss the deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages. As an auto accident lawyer, I advise all my clients to act promptly and seek legal counsel as soon as possible after an accident. This ensures that crucial evidence is preserved, witnesses’ recollections are fresh, and your case is built on a strong foundation to achieve the best possible outcome.

Stay Informed about Changing Insurance Laws: Updates from an Auto Accident Lawyer 

Staying informed about recent changes in Houston, TX insurance laws is essential for every driver. These updates impact the coverage options available to you and may significantly affect the outcome of your auto accident claim. If you find yourself involved in an auto accident in Houston, through the negligence, recklessness, or carelessness of another individual, don’t hesitate to seek the expertise of an experienced auto accident lawyer.

DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, PLLC

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, PLLC, we are committed to helping accident victims claim fair compensation for their injuries and losses. Our dedicated team takes our clients’ adverse situations personally and works meticulously to maximize the compensation they receive. With a deep insight into personal injury law in Texas and a firm understanding of the local courts and procedures in the Houston area, we develop winning legal strategies for our clients.

Don’t wait to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. Call (832) 745-4878 today for a free consultation with our experienced auto accident lawyers at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, PLLC. Let us help you navigate the complexities of auto accident claims and secure the justice you deserve.