By Anderson Cummings Drawhorn on April 10, 2025
In Texas, uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage aren’t required, but insurance companies must offer it. If you don’t reject the coverage in writing, it will automatically be added to your policy. That small detail could make a big difference after a crash. At Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, we’ve worked with many drivers who were hit by someone without enough insurance—or none at all. These are the moments when having UM/UIM coverage really matters.
Let’s examine the pros and cons of uninsured motorist coverage in Texas so you can decide whether it’s a smart addition to your policy.
Below, our Fort Worth auto accident lawyers explore the pros and cons of uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Review the advantages and disadvantages of this coverage can help you decide if it is worth the investment.
If you were injured in a car accident caused by an uninsured driver, we may be able to help you seek compensation. At Anderson & Cummings, we have more than 50 years of combined experience and have recovered more than $100 million in compensation on behalf of our clients, including those injured by negligent drivers.
Call now to discuss your legal options at (817) 920-9000. No upfront fees.
Texas is an at-fault state, which means drivers who cause collisions with other vehicles can be held financially liable for the damages that result. That is why the state requires drivers to purchase a minimum amount of liability insurance:
While these are the minimum amounts, most drivers purchase higher limits. However, some drivers break the law and drive without insurance, which is where uninsured motorist coverage comes in.
Uninsured motorist coverage provides compensation to the policyholder after a crash caused by a driver who does not have insurance. You can also use uninsured motorist coverage if:
While Texas does not require drivers to purchase UM coverage, insurance companies are required to offer it when drivers purchase insurance. Drivers who want to reject coverage must do so in writing.
If an uninsured driver causes a crash, you may be able to use your UM coverage for various damages.
If you purchased UM bodily injury, it may cover the following costs:
If you bought UM property damage, you can use it to pay for:
There are multiple advantages of adding uninsured motorist coverage to your car insurance policy:
Despite its advantages, there are some downsides to UM coverage:
Would you be able to afford unexpected out-of-pocket expenses, especially ones that may cost tens of thousands of dollars? If not, you should strongly consider purchasing UM coverage.
Even if you have UM coverage, recovering compensation can be a challenge without a lawyer. While insurance companies routinely deny and undervalue car accident claims, they may be even more likely to fight you on a claim for uninsured motorist coverage.
Here are some of the ways a lawyer can help you with a UM claim:
Your lawyer can evaluate your insurance policy to determine if it covers your accident. He or she can also determine what specific damages your policy covers.
UM claims have specific requirements, so you need strong evidence to use this portion of your insurance. An experienced lawyer will know what evidence he or she needs to build a strong case, such as:
Evidence helps to prove the crash occurred, you have injuries and those injuries resulted in damages.
Insurance companies often undervalue claims, but an experienced lawyer knows how to respond to a low settlement offer. Our attorneys have many years or experience negotiating with insurance companies and securing favorable results for our clients.
Even though you have suffered an injury, insurance companies take claims more seriously when an attorney is involved. If you try to negotiate on your own, it is going to be harder to get the insurance company to offer more compensation. If a lawyer is involved, there is a possibility of a lawsuit, which can motivate insurers.
Wondering whether you need uninsured motorist coverage in Texas? While it’s not required by law, this coverage can protect you financially if a driver hits you without insurance—or doesn’t have enough. Here’s what Texas drivers should know before deciding to opt out.
Texas doesn’t require drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, but insurers must offer it when you buy liability coverage. While not mandatory, insurers are required to present this option in writing and explain it clearly, according to the Texas Department of Insurance. This ensures drivers understand their right to this protection when purchasing or renewing auto insurance. Many don’t realize the value of UM/UIM coverage until they need it. By requiring insurers to offer it, Texas helps drivers protect themselves from financial hardships caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers.
If you don’t reject UM/UIM coverage in writing, it will automatically be included in your policy. This opt-out setup helps protect drivers who may not fully understand the risks of getting into an accident without uninsured motorist coverage in Texas. Unless you decline in writing, you’re automatically covered—giving you a layer of protection many drivers don’t even realize they have.
UM/UIM coverage fills the gaps when you’re injured or experience property damage in a crash caused by a driver with no insurance or insufficient coverage. This coverage is especially important in severe accidents where the at-fault driver’s policy can’t cover all your damages. For many drivers, it’s a crucial safety net, offering financial support when the responsible party falls short. It may also extend to you and your family as pedestrians or passengers in other vehicles, depending on your policy terms.
UM/UIM coverage provides valuable benefits to ease the financial burden after an accident. It can cover:
These benefits are invaluable in serious accidents where recovery and repair costs can be overwhelming.
The minimum UM/UIM limits in Texas are:
These limits are set by law to provide basic protection. However, they may not cover all the costs in serious accidents involving major medical bills or property damage. Drivers should evaluate their needs and risk tolerance when choosing coverage limits.
For added protection, policyholders can buy higher UM/UIM coverage limits. This extra coverage offers financial security after a serious collision, helping cover costs like long-term medical care, lost future earnings, or major property damage. The cost of increasing limits is often small compared to the benefits, making it a smart investment for peace of mind.
Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage helps when the at-fault driver’s insurance isn’t enough to cover your damages. It covers the gap between their liability limits and your actual costs, like medical bills and lost wages. For example, if the at-fault driver’s limit is $30,000 but your damages total $50,000, UIM can cover the $20,000 difference (up to your policy limit). This ensures you’re not left covering costs due to another driver’s insufficient insurance.
For uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) claims, there’s typically a $250 deductible. This is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurer covers the rest. While it may seem inconvenient, it’s a small cost compared to repairing or replacing a damaged vehicle and provides peace of mind knowing your property is protected.
UM/UIM coverage is especially valuable in hit-and-run accidents. Your policy may cover injuries and property damage if the at-fault driver flees and can’t be identified. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, this protection applies even if the driver is never found, as long as the incident is reported promptly and you cooperate with your insurer’s investigation. Be sure to notify your insurer quickly after a hit-and-run to ensure smooth claim processing.
You must submit a written rejection to your provider to exclude UM/UIM coverage from your auto insurance. Without this, the coverage remains in place by default, offering automatic protection. Consider your finances, driving habits, and risk tolerance before opting out.
Understanding these factors will help you decide if uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is right for you.
If you were injured in an accident caused by an uninsured/underinsured driver, call Anderson & Cummings for help seeking compensation.
Our experience with cases like these means we can provide the legal support you need during this difficult time. Our lawyers are here to assist every step of the way, and we charge you no upfront fees.
Learn how we can help after an accident. Call (817) 920-9000.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by attorney Seth Anderson, whose team has more than 50 years of combined legal experience in helping victims of personal injury seek justice.
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