Quick Answer
What happens if an uninsured driver hits you in Texas? If you’re involved in
an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, Uninsured/Underinsured
Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may help pay for vehicle repairs, medical expenses,
lost wages, and other covered damages.
For property damage claims, Texas UM/UIM coverage
includes a $250 deductible, which is often much lower
than a standard collision deductible.
Key Takeaways
- Texas insurers must offer UM/UIM coverage.
- Drivers may reject UM/UIM only by signing a written rejection.
- UM/UIM protects you if the at-fault driver has
no insurance or not enough insurance. - Property damage claims have a $250 deductible.
- UM/UIM may also apply to many hit-and-run accidents.
- Collision Coverage and UM/UIM are different coverages
and can work together.
Why UM/UIM Coverage Matters in Texas
Depending on your policy and coverage limits, UM/UIM may help pay for:
- Vehicle repairs
- Vehicle replacement (if totaled)
- Medical bills
- Emergency medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering (when covered by Texas law)
- Property damage
- Certain hit-and-run accidents
What Is the $250 Deductible?
Texas UM Property Damage coverage includes a $250 deductible.
For example:
Your repair bill: $4,000
UM Property Damage deductible: $250
Insurance pays: $3,750
You pay: $250
This deductible is often much lower than the typical
Collision deductible of $500 or $1,000.
Collision Coverage vs. UM/UIM Coverage
Many drivers confuse these coverages.
Collision Coverage
Collision Coverage pays to repair your vehicle after a collision
regardless of who caused the accident.
However, you must usually pay your collision deductible.
UM/UIM Coverage
UM/UIM applies when the other driver:
- has no insurance,
- doesn’t have enough insurance,
- or qualifies under Texas hit-and-run rules.
For property damage, the deductible is generally $250.
What If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have
Enough Insurance?
Sometimes a driver has insurance—but not enough.
Example:
Your damages: $45,000
The at-fault driver’s insurance pays: $30,000
If you purchased Underinsured Motorist Coverage, your own policy
may help cover the remaining eligible
damages up to your policy limits.
Does UM/UIM Cover Hit-and-Run Accidents?
For many Texas drivers, the answer is yes.
UM/UIM coverage may be especially valuable if:
- You drive every day.
- You commute in heavy traffic.
- You own a newer vehicle.
- You would struggle to pay thousands of dollars after an accident.
Considering the number of uninsured and underinsured drivers
on the road, UM/UIM can provide
important financial protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is UM/UIM coverage required in Texas?
No. Texas insurers must offer it, but you can reject it in writing.
What is the deductible for UM Property Damage?
Texas UM Property Damage generally has a $250 deductible.
Can I have both Collision Coverage and UM/UIM?
Yes. Many Texas drivers carry both types of coverage.
Does UM/UIM cover medical expenses?
Yes. Depending on your policy, UM/UIM Bodily Injury may help pay
medical bills and other covered losses after an accident caused
by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
What happens if the other driver has only
minimum insurance
If their policy limits are not enough to cover your damages, your
Underinsured Motorist Coverage may help pay eligible remaining losses.
Does UM/UIM cover a hit-and-run accident?
It may. Coverage depends on the facts of the accident and your policy.
Report the accident immediately and cooperate with your insurance
company during the claim process.
Is UM/UIM the same as Collision Coverage?
No.
Collision Coverage pays for damage to your vehicle regardless of fault,
subject to your deductible.
UM/UIM protects you when the at-fault driver has no insurance or
insufficient insurance.
Should I reject UM/UIM coverage?
Many insurance professionals recommend keeping UM/UIM coverage
because it can protect you from significant financial losses if you’re hit
by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Final Thoughts
An accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver can quickly
become expensive. Fortunately, Texas drivers have the option to protect
themselves with Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage.
Understanding how UM/UIM coverage works—including the $250 property
damage deductible, coverage limits, and protection in many
hit-and-run situations—can help you make informed decisions
before an accident happens.
Reviewing your auto insurance policy regularly is the best way to make sure
you have the protection you need. If you have questions about your coverage
or want to explore your options, consider speaking with a licensed Texas insurance agent.