Texas law requires all drivers to carry proof of insurance. If caught driving without your proof of insurance, you will be subject to civil penalties. If you are in a car accident with no insurance, even if you were not at fault, you will likely find the other driver’s insurer tries to prove you were. At Springer & Lyle, we can help you collect for your damages even if you did not have car insurance.
Consequences of Being in an Accident Without Insurance
If you are in a car accident and have no insurance, there are hefty consequences even if you are not at fault. Some consequences may be:
- The police officer will likely issue a ticket.
- The police officer may have your car towed.
- Your car may be impounded for up to six months.
- If your car is impounded, to get it back, you will have to show proof of insurance and pay a hefty fee.
- When you apply for insurance, you will pay a higher rate.
If the other driver can prove you were more than 50% at fault, you could be personally responsible for paying a large judgment against you.
How to Prove You Were Not at Fault and Collect for Your Damages
In Texas, to collect for your damages, you must prove the other person was at fault or at least partially at fault for the accident. Just because you did not have insurance does not automatically mean you were at fault. Here are some ways you can prove you were not at fault:
- A police report that describes the accident in terms that show you were not at fault.
- Photos of the accident scene, including photos of the damage to the vehicles, photos of the injuries suffered by all the parties, and photos of the accident site.
- Witness statements.
- Verbal statements from the at fault party, whether recorded or not, which admit they did something wrong.
- Eyewitness testimony.
- Traffic camera footage if available.
Why You Need the Help of an Attorney
If you do not have insurance, the other driver’s insurance adjustor will contact you personally since you have no adjuster that they can communicate with. They may try to get you to admit fault or take a recorded statement that can be used against you later.
You may also be tempted to take a settlement that does not completely compensate you for your injuries or pay off liens related to health insurance and hospital bills that you didn’t know existed. If these hidden liens are not paid back, you could be sued by your own health insurance company or the hospital.
The personal injury attorneys at Springer & Lyle can help you get the reasonable compensation you are entitled for your injuries, lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other physical damage. Contact us at 940.387.0404 for a free consultation.
