What If My Insurance Lapsed Right Before the Car Accident?
Many people worry that if their car insurance lapsed just before an accident, they can’t recover for their injuries. In Texas, that’s not true.
Texas Is an At-Fault State
Texas follows fault-based insurance rules. That means the driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying for your damages, regardless of whether you had active insurance at the time.
If the other driver caused the accident, their liability coverage is responsible for your medical bills, property damage, and other losses.
Your insurance status does not reduce your claim or case value.
What About Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
If your insurance lapsed, you might not be able to claim your own uninsured motorist coverage. However, this does not prevent you from pursuing a claim against the at-fault driver.
Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage is optional, and it only applies if the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance.
Even without your own coverage, the other driver’s insurance pays for your damages if they are at fault.
Why Hiring an Experienced Attorney Matters
An unrepresented person might not know how to navigate these nuances, and insurance companies may try to use your lapsed coverage as leverage.
A skilled personal injury attorney can:
Ensure your claim focuses on the at-fault driver
Maximize your settlement regardless of your insurance lapse
Prevent the insurance company from improperly arguing against your claim
Bottom Line
Your lapsed insurance does not prevent you from getting compensation if another driver caused the accident. It’s irrelevant to fault, case value, and what you’re legally entitled to recover.
If your insurance lapsed, the key is to contact an experienced attorney immediately to ensure you still receive the full value of your personal injury claim.
