No, Texas is not a no-fault state. Instead, it follows a traditional “at-fault” insurance system, meaning the driver who causes an accident is financially responsible for the resulting damages and injuries.
This has major implications for how car accident claims are handled, how insurance coverage works, and what steps you should take if you’re injured in a crash in Texas. Below, we’ll break down everything you need to know — including how comparative fault, PIP, and MedPay coverage work in the Lone Star State.
What Does “At-Fault” Mean in Texas?
In Texas, the at-fault driver — or more accurately, their insurance company — is responsible for paying for accident-related damages. These can include:
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
If you’re injured in a crash and the other driver is at fault, you can file:
- A third-party insurance claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer
- A claim through your own insurer (if you have relevant coverage like collision, PIP, or MedPay)
- A personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver for damages not fully covered by insurance
This system differs from no-fault states, where your own insurer pays your medical bills regardless of who caused the accident.
Understanding Texas’ Insurance Requirements
Under Texas law, all drivers must carry a minimum amount of liability insurance to cover damages they cause to others:
- $30,000 per person for bodily injury
- $60,000 per accident for bodily injury (two or more people)
- $25,000 for property damage
This coverage does not pay for your own injuries or vehicle damage — unless the other driver is uninsured and you have optional add-ons like Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
Optional Coverages That Mimic No-Fault Protections
While Texas is not a no-fault state, certain optional coverages act similarly by paying for your losses regardless of who was at fault:
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
- Covers medical expenses, lost wages, and essential services like childcare if you’re injured
- Automatically included in Texas policies unless you reject it in writing
- No deductible and no need to prove fault
- Great for quick access to funds while your case is pending
Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay)
- Covers medical and funeral expenses resulting from a car accident
- Available regardless of fault
- Does not cover lost wages or non-medical costs
- Optional and can be stacked with other types of coverage
These can be lifesavers, especially while waiting for liability disputes to resolve or third-party claims to be processed.
How Comparative Fault Works in Texas
Texas follows a “modified comparative fault” rule, which means that:
- You can still recover compensation if you are 50% or less at fault
- Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault
- If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages
Example:
If you’re awarded $100,000 in damages but are found 20% at fault for the crash, you’ll receive $80,000. But if you’re 51% at fault, you’ll receive nothing.
This rule makes strong legal representation critical — especially when fault is disputed.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Texas
If you’re involved in a car accident, here are important steps to protect your rights:
- Call the police and report the crash
- Exchange information with the other driver(s)
- Document the scene — take photos, gather witness statements
- Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries
- Contact a personal injury attorney to understand your legal options
Why Legal Help Matters in an At-Fault State Like Texas
In at-fault systems like Texas, insurance companies are focused on minimizing payouts — even to the innocent party. They may try to:
- Shift blame onto you
- Undervalue your injuries
- Pressure you into accepting a low settlement
That’s why it’s so important to have an experienced car accident lawyer in your corner.
How The Law Office of Paul Previte Can Help
At The Law Office of Paul Previte, we’ve helped countless Texans navigate the complex insurance and personal injury landscape after car accidents. We:
- Investigate liability and gather crucial evidence
- Handle communications and negotiations with insurance companies
- Fight to recover full compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering
You don’t have to face this process alone. Whether you’re unsure how to file a claim or fighting for a fair settlement, we’re here to help.
Injured in a Texas Car Accident? Let’s Talk.
Contact The Law Office of Paul Previte today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll explain your rights, evaluate your case, and help you get the compensation you deserve — with no fees unless we win.
