There are several factors that make reliable car insurance critical for Texas drivers, including:  

• Heavy traffic and accidents: Metropolitan areas like Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Austin have some of the busiest highways, increasing the risk of collisions. 
• Severe weather: Texas experiences extreme weather, from hurricanes along the Gulf Coast to hailstorms and flash floods, which can seriously damage vehicles. 
• Uninsured drivers: Texas has a high percentage of uninsured or underinsured drivers, making robust car insurance coverage even more important. 
• Vehicle theft rates: Cities like San Antonio and Houston see higher rates of auto theft. 

Texas is an “at-fault” state, meaning the driver found responsible for an accident bears the financial liability for damages and injuries. To ensure safety and financial responsibility on the roads, Texas requires drivers to carry minimum car insurance coverage, which includes:  

• Bodily Injury Liability: Coverage for others’ medical costs when you’re at fault. Minimum coverage of $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident. 
• Property Damage Liability: Coverage for others’ vehicles or property when you’re at fault. Minimum limit of $25,000 per accident.  
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers, regardless of fault. $2,500 per person. 
  • PIP is not required but is included in standard policies. You have the choice to reject this but must do it with your agent in writing. 
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage: Split into bodily injury and property damage. Coverage for both your vehicle and injuries if the other party doesn't have sufficient insurance. Minimums reflect the state limits for liability. 
  • While not required by the state, standard policies will include this. If you wish to adjust limits or reject entirely, you must do so with your agent in writing. 

Personal Injury will cover medical expenses, but the liability coverage only pays for the other party if you’re at fault. It’s best to add coverage to protect your vehicle.  

Many drivers have better peace of mind when they have more coverage for their policy. Additional coverage options include:  

• Collision Coverage: Helps pay for damages to your vehicle caused by a covered accident based on your deductible. 
• Comprehensive Coverage: Helps pay for non-collision damages to your vehicle caused by a covered accident based on your deductible. 
• Roadside Assistance: Helps pay for the cost of towing your vehicle if it cannot be driven due to an accident or breakdown. 
• Rental Car Reimbursement: Helps pay for the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered accident. 
• Increase Liability Limits: Some drivers see the benefit of increasing their liability limits to avoid costly out-of-pocket expenses if they’re found to be at fault. 
• Medical Payments (MedPay): Helps cover medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of fault. 
  • Highly recommended if you reject PIP.

At Goosehead Insurance, we know Texas drivers have diverse needs, and no two drivers are the same. Whether you’ve got a custom car or don’t drive very often, we can help build a policy that’s perfect for you.  

In addition to your coverage selections, car insurance costs in Texas vary based on several factors, including:  

• Driving record: Drivers with clean records typically pay lower premiums, while accidents and violations lead to higher rates. 
• Age: Young drivers under 25 tend to pay more for insurance due to their higher accident risk. 
• Location: Urban areas like Houston and Dallas often have higher rates due to traffic and theft, while rural areas may see lower premiums. 
• Type of vehicle: Luxury or high-value cars generally cost more to insure than older, less expensive vehicles. 

On average, Texas drivers pay approximately $740 annually for minimum coverage and up to an average of $2,600 annually for policies that have more coverage.  

If you’re shopping for affordable car insurance in Texas, try these strategies to save:  

• Bundle policies: Combine your car and home insurance for discounts. 
• Maintain a clean driving record: Avoid accidents and traffic violations to reduce premiums over time. 
• Ask about discounts: Many carriers offer money-saving options for good students, veterans, or vehicles with advanced safety features. 
• Take a defensive driving course: Completing an approved course could earn you a discount with certain insurers. 

For Texas car insurance, Goosehead Insurance is the trusted partner drivers turn to. Here’s why so many Texans entrust us with their auto insurance needs:  

• Comprehensive Comparisons: We compare policies from numerous top-rated carriers to find the right coverage at an affordable price. 
• Tailored Solutions: Our agents take time to understand your needs, ensuring you get protection specific to your lifestyle and risks. 
• Hassle-Free Process: We simplify the shopping experience, saving you time and frustration. 
• Dedicated Support: From choosing your coverage to managing claims, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.