You were injured in a car accident. The other driver caused the crash. Then you discover something even worse:

They do not have insurance.

Unfortunately, this situation is more common than many people realize. Texas has thousands of uninsured drivers on the road, and many accident victims are left wondering how they will pay for medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs.

The good news is that you may still have options for recovering compensation — even if the at-fault driver has no insurance.

At Sorrels Law, we help injury victims navigate these difficult situations and pursue every available source of recovery.

Is Auto Insurance Required in Texas?

Yes. Texas law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance coverage.

Currently, the minimum limits are:

• $30,000 for injuries per person
• $60,000 per accident
• $25,000 for property damage

Unfortunately, not everyone follows the law.

Some drivers carry no insurance at all, while others carry policies that are far too small to cover serious injuries.

What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

One of the most important protections you can have is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM).

This coverage is designed to help when:

• The at-fault driver has no insurance
• The driver does not have enough insurance
• A hit-and-run driver cannot be identified

UM/UIM coverage may help pay for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Vehicle damage

In Texas, insurance companies are required to offer UM/UIM coverage, although drivers can reject it in writing.

Can I File a Claim With My Own Insurance Company?

Yes. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you may be able to file a claim through your own insurance policy.

However, many people are surprised to learn that:
Your insurance company may still try to minimize your claim.

Even though it is your own carrier, the insurance company may:

• Dispute fault
• Question your injuries
• Delay payment
• Offer less than your case is worth

That is why legal representation can still be important in uninsured motorist claims.

What If I Do Not Have UM/UIM Coverage?

If you do not carry uninsured motorist coverage, you may still have legal options depending on the circumstances.

Potential avenues may include:

• Filing a lawsuit directly against the at-fault driver
• Pursuing claims against other responsible parties
• Exploring employer liability if the driver was working
• Investigating vehicle ownership issues

In some cases, there may be additional insurance policies available that are not immediately obvious.

Can I Sue the Uninsured Driver?

Technically, yes.

However, many uninsured drivers lack significant financial assets. Winning a lawsuit does not always guarantee recovery if the individual cannot pay the judgment.

That said, every case is unique. A thorough investigation may uncover:

• Additional liable parties
• Hidden insurance coverage
• Commercial involvement
• Employer liability

What If It Was a Hit-and-Run Accident?

Hit-and-run accidents are often treated similarly to uninsured motorist cases.

If the driver cannot be identified, your UM coverage may still apply.

It is important to:

• Report the accident immediately
• Call law enforcement
• Gather witness information
• Seek medical treatment promptly

Common Mistakes to Avoid

After an accident involving an uninsured driver, avoid:

• Assuming you have no case
• Delaying medical treatment
• Accepting a low insurance offer
• Giving recorded statements without legal advice
• Waiting too long to investigate coverage options

Critical evidence and insurance opportunities can disappear quickly.

Why These Cases Require Experienced Legal Help

Uninsured driver cases are often more complicated than standard car accident claims.

An experienced Texas personal injury lawyer can:

• Investigate all available insurance coverage
• Identify additional liable parties
• Handle negotiations with insurance companies
• Calculate the full value of your damages
• Pursue litigation if necessary

At Sorrels Law, we understand the tactics insurers use — and we fight to protect our clients from bearing the financial burden of someone else’s negligence.

Contact Sorrels Law

If you were injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver, you may still have options. Sorrels Law is here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.