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In Texas, you must carry proof of your ability to pay for accidents you cause. Unless you have the resources to "self-insure", you'll need to buy auto liability insurance. Texas requires minimum coverage of $25,000 per injured person, up to a total of $50,000 for everyone hurt in an accident, and $25,000 for property damage. This basic coverage is called 25/50/25 coverage. If you see any information showing lower amounts from other agents, it should be a clue that they are not keeping up with changes in Texas laws. These are the minimum amounts and may not give you full protection if there is a serious accident and you have substantial assets. Consider buying more coverage than the basic limits. When you buy an auto insurance policy, the insurance company will provide you with a proof-of-insurance card. Keep that card accessible when you drive. You will have to show proof of insurance in the following situations.
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a law enforcement officer asks to see it.
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are involved in an accident
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need to register your car or renew its registration
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go to obtain or renew your driver´s license
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get your car inspected.
Texas has severe penalties for not having the required liability coverage. A first offense will brning a fine between $175 and $350. More incidents could result in fines of $350 to $1,000, suspension of your driver´s license, and loss of use of your impounded automobile. |
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