You’re not alone if all you know about auto insurance is that you need it to drive legally. Now is the time to answer your questions and better understand your Texas auto insurance policy—what it covers and doesn’t. The perfect time to learn about your insurance is before you need it, not after you’ve been in an accident or filed a claim.
When it comes to car insurance, people often don’t know if the insurance “follows” the driver or the car. If you are driving your mom’s car and get into an accident, does your insurance cover it? If you let your best friend drive your vehicle to the corner store and they hit someone, whose car insurance policy pays for the damage? No wonder this question is so commonly asked! Understanding these scenarios can help you find the best auto insurance in Texas to fit your specific needs and driving habits.
Does Insurance Follow the Car or the Driver?
Generally, auto insurance is for the car, not the driver. However, several factors, most notably the kind of auto insurance coverage you initially have, will determine whether insurance follows the car or the driver. In other words, car insurance is complicated.
There are choices in coverage that follow the car and some that follow the driver. In general, auto insurance follows the car instead of the driver. Still, the specifics of a claim can differ since insurance laws and coverage vary depending on the policy you have selected.
Comparing policies from different auto insurance providers in Texas can help clarify which coverage types are included and how they apply in various situations.
Liability Insurance Follows the Driver
Liability insurance is the only insurance that is legally required in Texas. This portion of insurance covers the costs associated with injuries, death, or property damage caused by the driver. It follows the driver no matter whose car is being operated, provided it is an eligible vehicle. If you rear-end the car in front of you at a stoplight while driving your mom’s car, the damage to their bumper is covered by liability insurance. If you’re wondering what are the minimum requirements for auto insurance in Texas, liability insurance is the primary form of coverage the state mandates.
Collision and Comprehensive Auto Insurance
Using the previous example, we haven’t yet discussed the damage to your mom’s car. To further investigate this, we will talk about auto insurance, specifically collision and comprehensive coverage.
These auto insurance coverage options are tied to the insured vehicle, which means they follow the car. Collision and comprehensive insurance cover the damage to an insured vehicle caused by an accident or act of vandalism, regardless of who’s driving.
One way to think of it is that if you loan your vehicle, you also loan your car insurance. Since comprehensive insurance covers everything linked to the car, the real party under coverage is the vehicle, not the driver. To do this, you must set up certain rules, like who can drive the car.
If someone other than the insured drives a car with comprehensive coverage and isn’t designated as a covered driver, they may not be protected in an accident. Most policies already include family members like your spouse in the definition of “insured.” However, even if you give your best friend permission to use the vehicle, they likely won’t be protected. The answer to this case comes down to your policy’s details.
To ensure you’re not overpaying for coverage you don’t need, take the time to compare the average auto insurance rates in Texas.
For drivers seeking affordability without sacrificing protection, there are options for the most affordable auto insurance in Texas that still meet legal and personal coverage needs.
Minimum Requirements for Auto Insurance in Texas
To legally drive in Texas, all motorists must carry a minimum level of liability insurance. These requirements ensure that drivers can cover the costs of damage or injury if they are found at fault in an accident.
So, what are the minimum requirements for auto insurance in Texas? The state mandates liability coverage with the following limits, commonly referred to as 30/60/25:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for total bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
While these are the legal minimums, they may not be enough in the event of a major accident. Many drivers choose to purchase higher coverage limits or add comprehensive and collision coverage for greater protection. Knowing these minimums is a great starting point for selecting a policy that fits your budget and offers adequate protection.
How Coverage Type Affects the Cost of Auto Insurance in Texas
Understanding the type of coverage you choose can make a big difference when you’re trying to find the most affordable auto insurance in Texas. While minimum liability coverage is the cheapest option, it offers the least protection. On the other hand, policies that include collision, comprehensive, or uninsured motorist coverage will cost more but also provide broader financial security.
Here are a few ways coverage type influences cost:
- Liability-only coverage is generally the most budget-friendly but only protects others from damage or injury you cause.
- Collision coverage increases your premium but pays for damage to your own vehicle after an accident.
- Comprehensive coverage adds protection against theft, weather damage, vandalism, and more—raising the cost but covering more scenarios.
- Add-ons like rental reimbursement, roadside assistance, and gap insurance can also raise rates but offer additional peace of mind.
If you’re shopping for affordable coverage, it’s crucial to balance cost with how much risk you’re willing to take on. Comparing quotes from different auto insurance providers in Texas and tailoring coverage to your needs can help you get the best value for your money.
Find Out Which Auto Insurance Works Best for You
If you’re in the market for Texas car insurance, it’s important to understand the different types of coverage available. At Pronto Insurance, we can help you select the right policy for your needs and ensure you know what is and is not covered. Get a quote today and see how much you could save on your premiums!
