Many Texas drivers lack auto insurance, data shows
A new insurance database makes it easier for law enforcement officials to cite Texas drivers without auto insurance
According to Texas’ TexasSure auto insurance verification database, a high percentage of Texas drivers do without auto insurance.
The problem is especially acute in the Panhandle and South Plains region, the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal reported recently. Over a quarter of drivers in some counties are uninsured, TexasSure data shows.
The cost of all those uninsured drivers is high: Drivers who forego insurance cost insured people up to $1 billion each year. “We’ve had this problem for years,” House Insurance Committee chairman John Smithee said to the Avalanche-Journal.
Insured drivers who suffer an accident with an uninsured person must foot the bill for repair costs. Drivers without auto insurance can be fined or lose their license; tickets issued for lack of insurance are $350 for the first offense and $1,000 for the second.
Nevertheless, many Texans choose to do without insurance because its cost is prohibitively high. The Lone Star State only requires drivers to carry liability coverage, a less-stringent mandate than most states have, but auto insurance is too expensive for many.
Drivers looking for cheaper insurance are advised to shop online and drive safely. Driving record is a major factor in premium costs.
Learn how easy and convenient shopping for auto insurance can be. Get your free auto insurance quotes today!
Posted: January 8, 2010
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