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Car accidents are stressful enough—but discovering the driver who caused your crash is uninsured can quickly turn a bad situation into a nightmare. In Houston, where traffic congestion is heavy and accidents are common, thousands of drivers operate vehicles without proper insurance. If you're injured in a car crash caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver, you may still have legal avenues to recover compensation. But doing so requires a thorough understanding of your rights, insurance policy, and available legal strategies. Find more information on our Houston Car Accident Attorneys here
This article explains exactly what to do if you’re hit by an uninsured driver in Houston, and how a car accident attorney can help protect your financial future.
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Texas law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage:
$30,000 for bodily injury per person
$60,000 per accident
$25,000 for property damage
Despite this mandate, the Insurance Research Council estimates that over 8% of Texas drivers are uninsured—and in urban areas like Houston, that number may be higher. Many more drivers carry only the minimum, which may not cover the full extent of your injuries or damages in a serious accident.
Call 911 immediately to report the accident. Police will file an official report.
Do not leave the scene, even if the other driver suggests handling it “privately.”
Gather evidence, including photos of the vehicles, damage, license plate, and driver's license (if available).
Write down any statements the driver makes about not having insurance.
A police report documenting the lack of insurance will support your future insurance claim or lawsuit.
Request a complete evaluation and keep all medical records, prescriptions, and discharge papers. These documents are critical in proving the extent of your injuries.
UM coverage pays for injuries and property damage caused by a driver who has no insurance. In Texas, insurance companies must offer this coverage when you purchase a policy, but you can decline it in writing. If you accepted UM coverage, it may cover:
This applies when the at-fault driver has some insurance, but not enough to cover your losses. Your UIM coverage fills the gap between what the other driver’s policy pays and the total cost of your damages.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
PIP is optional in Texas but extremely useful. It covers medical expenses and a portion of lost wages regardless of who was at fault.
Collision Coverage
This type of coverage pays for repairs to your vehicle after a crash, even when the other driver lacks insurance.
An attorney can review your policy, explain your options, and help you file the correct type of claim with your insurer.
Even though you’re dealing with your own insurer, they may still try to minimize the payout. Their goal is to save money, not necessarily to treat you fairly.
However, many uninsured drivers lack the financial resources to pay damages. Your lawyer will assess the likelihood of a successful recovery before proceeding.
Gather evidence to prove the other driver’s fault
Interpret your insurance policy and negotiate with your provider
File claims for UM/UIM, PIP, or collision coverage
Calculate your total damages
Represent you in court, if necessary
Most car accident attorneys in Houston work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay unless you win compensation.
What If the Uninsured Driver Was Working for Uber, Lyft, or a Delivery Company?
If the at-fault driver was operating a vehicle for work (rideshare, delivery, courier), the employer may be liable. For example:
Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in coverage when drivers are on a ride
Food delivery companies often have commercial insurance
Trucking companies are required to carry high-limit liability coverage
A lawyer can determine whether a business entity shares liability and pursue compensation from commercial policies that far exceed individual coverage limits.
Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. That means you must file a lawsuit within two years from the date of the accident—or lose your right to recover compensation.
Additionally, your insurance policy may have specific deadlines for reporting accidents or filing UM/UIM claims. Act quickly to avoid missing out on your rights.
Avoiding Future Risks: Protect Yourself With Proper Coverage
If you’re reading this after an accident and don’t have UM/UIM coverage, strongly consider adding it. It’s one of the most affordable types of insurance and can save you from major financial hardship. Discuss your coverage options with your insurer, or have your attorney review your policy.
Being hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver in Houston is frustrating—but you still have options. Whether it's through your own policy, a third-party claim, or civil litigation, a skilled attorney can help you secure the compensation you need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
Don’t face an uninsured driver claim alone. Contact a trusted Houston car accident attorney to evaluate your case and explore the best legal strategy for your situation.