When the At-Fault Driver is Underinsured - Strategies for Laredo Car Accident Victims

Nestled along the Rio Grande, Laredo, Texas, stands as a cultural and trade hub of the Southwest. As the second-largest city on the Texas-Mexico border, with a population of over 250,000 residents, this vibrant city pulsates with life. Amid its bustling highways like Interstate 35 and US Route 83, drivers encounter large commercial vehicles, international travelers, local commuters, and even hazardous substances. Unfortunately, accidents can happen and not everyone involved in these accidents has sufficient at-fault driver insurance in Laredo to cover the damages they have caused.

Read below to learn more, and contact the experienced attorneys at Carabin Shaw to schedule a free consultation.

It's crucial to understand the basics of car accident liability in Texas, as it forms the foundation for your case. Texas follows a fault-based system where the at-fault driver should cover damages through their insurance. However, when dealing with an underinsured at-fault driver, their insurance may be insufficient to cover everything.

Additionally, Texas also uses a comparative fault system, where multiple parties can share a certain degree of fault in an accident. This means even if you share some fault, you may still receive compensation, albeit reduced. Accurate fault determination is essential for Laredo car accident victims facing underinsured at-fault drivers, as these proportional liability assessments will affect the total amount you are able to recover. Of course, having a trusted Texas lawyer by your side will make this process much easier.

Recognizing when a party involved in a motor vehicle accident is underinsured is crucial after a car accident. After a car wreck, be sure to do the following:

• Request a copy and carefully examine the at fault driver’s insurance policy.
  • Look for policy limits for both bodily injury and property damage. Often, policies with lower coverage limits are indicative of underinsurance.
• Evaluate your medical expenses, vehicle repair costs, and property damage.
  • The more serious the accident, the more likely it is that the at-fault party's insurance coverage falls short.
• Carefully consider any settlement offers made by the at-fault party's insurer.
  • If a settlement is offered too quickly or if the amount seems inadequate given the extent of your damages, it could be a sign of underinsurance.
• Consult with experienced Laredo car accident attorneys.
  • They possess the expertise to review evidence, insurance policies, and settlement offers, to determine fault and sufficiency of insurance coverage.

If you learn that the at-fault party in your car accident is either under- or uninsured, you may already have built-in protection through your own insurance. Many Texans carry uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage as part of their own auto insurance policies. This coverage is designed to protect you when you're involved in an accident with a driver who lacks adequate insurance. If you have UM/UIM coverage, it can provide compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages not covered by the at-fault driver's insurance.

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident involving an underinsured driver can be overwhelming. This is where the expertise of a seasoned attorney becomes invaluable. At Carabin Shaw we have a team of experienced lawyers ready to assist you. We offer a free case review and initial consultation to help you understand if your claim is affected by an underinsured driver, and what to do next.

Carabin Shaw’s client reviews speak to our dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients, and our team is available to assist you 24/7 in both English and Spanish. Facing an underinsured at-fault driver can be daunting, but it's essential to know that you have options. Seeking legal assistance from the Laredo car wreck lawyers at Carabin Shaw can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages. Call us toll-free at 800-862-1260.

For more information:

• Census.gov
• Texas TDI