Being involved in a semi-truck accident in Austin can be overwhelming—especially when injuries are involved. Between hospital visits, time off work, and calls from insurance adjusters, you may wonder: Should I use my own auto insurance to pay for my injuries?
The short answer is yes, you can—but it depends on your coverage and your legal strategy.
At Glen Larson Law Injury Attorneys, we help truck accident victims understand their options and avoid mistakes that could hurt their claim. Here’s what you need to know about using your auto insurance after a crash with a semi-truck in Texas.
Texas Is a Fault-Based State—But That Doesn’t Mean You Should Wait
Texas follows a fault-based insurance system, which means the driver (or company) who caused the crash is responsible for covering damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A semi-truck accident usually involves the truck driver, the employer, or another third party.
However, proving fault and negotiating with a trucking company’s insurer can take weeks or even months—especially if liability is disputed. In the meantime, you may need to rely on your insurance to cover urgent medical expenses.
What Auto Insurance Coverage Can Help Right Away?
If you carry certain types of coverage, your policy can provide a significant relief while your personal injury claim is being investigated.
They include:
- Health Insurance: Can be used to cover treatment costs, but you may be required to reimburse your health insurer later through a subrogation process if you receive a settlement.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical bills, lost income, and household expenses, regardless of who was at fault. PIP is optional in Texas but extremely helpful after a crash.
- Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay): This coverage helps pay for medical treatment up to your policy limits without waiting for liability to be established.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage: If the truck driver doesn’t have enough coverage or another at-fault party can’t be identified, UM/UIM may step in to cover your losses.
This coverage can help ease the financial burden early in the process, but it won’t cover everything, and it shouldn’t replace your right to pursue full compensation from the at-fault parties.
Let Us Help You Navigate Insurance and Fight for Full Compensation
Semi-truck accidents often involve multiple parties, complex insurance issues, and serious injuries. At Glen Larson Law Injury Attorneys, we understand these challenges and are committed to helping you recover the full compensation you are entitled to.
If you’ve been injured in a truck crash in Austin, call (512) 883-0277 or contact us online for a free consultation. We’ll review your insurance coverage, explain your options, and fight to protect your health, finances, and future.
We pursue dedicated, driven results for our clients, and there is never a charge to talk to an attorney. We stand ready to help you.