Auto insurance provides protection against many things that can happen on the road. Reckless driving, however, usually isn’t one of them. Here’s how your auto insurance policy would likely treat a claim if you were found to be recklessly driving on one of the roads in Highland Village, TX.

What’s Reckless Driving?

Reckless driving is generally defined as driving a vehicle that shows an apparent disregard for the safety of persons or property. 

This includes excessive speeding and aggressive maneuvers like weaving through traffic and disregarding traffic laws. Speeding a little over the posted limit normally isn’t reckless. Speeding by an egregious amount can be, though.

Insurance Coverage and Reckless Driving

Typically, auto insurance policies cover accidents that occur because of common mistakes or negligence. Reckless driving isn’t a mistake or simple inattentiveness, though. It’s an intentional decision to drive in an unsafe manner, even in a criminal manner.

Reckless driving is a criminal activity, and most auto insurance policies don’t cover damages or liabilities arising from criminal driving. Your auto policy likely won’t cover you when driving in this manner, leaving you solely liable for any damages or injuries you cause.

If you’ve previously been convicted of reckless driving in Highland Village, TX (or elsewhere), you may have trouble finding auto insurance now. We at Thompson Insurance Services can help you check what your options are.

Get Insurance for Potential Driving Mistakes

Insurance isn’t an excuse to drive without care for others, but it provides important protection against common mistakes that can happen when driving. For help finding auto insurance that’ll cover basic auto accidents, contact us at Thompson Insurance Services.

Did you know that driving without auto insurance is illegal in Texas? All drivers on Texas roads are required to have adequate auto insurance to protect themselves, their automobiles, and their fellow drivers in the event of an auto accident. 

If you’re unsure which auto insurance is best for you, talk to a licensed insurance agent at Thompson Insurance Services in Highland Village to learn about and understand the differences. 

Texas Auto Insurance Explained

The following are examples of available auto insurance types. 

Liability Insurance: Texas drivers get liability insurance as the foundation for other coverages. This basic insurance can help cover the costs of repairs if you’re involved in an accident where you’re at fault. 

Collision Coverage: Collision coverages add benefits to liability insurance policies. Drivers who get collision insurance are covered for damages and repairs when their car is in an accident. 

Comprehensive Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive coverage offers a third tier of insurance that adds benefits for covering non-collision-related incidents like vehicle damage caused by natural disasters, floods, and even auto theft. 

Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Drivers who want to add protections for other drivers who don’t have enough insurance can talk to a licensed insurance provider about adding uninsured motorist coverage to their auto insurance policy. 

Get an Auto Insurance Quote in Highland Village, TX

Join the ranks of responsible drivers in Highland Village, TX by choosing a customized auto insurance policy to protect your vehicle, its passengers, and other drivers on the road. 

Licensed auto insurance agents can help you understand the different types of Texas auto insurance policies available and make an informed decision on choosing a policy based on your budget and driving history.  

Contact a licensed auto insurance at Thompson Insurance Services for a quote today! 

Navigating the auto insurance world can be intricate, especially when confronted with terms like "no-fault" and "at-fault." Grasping the distinctions between these systems can help you better understand your coverage and responsibilities in the event of an accident, and Thompson Insurance Services, serving the greater Highland Village, TX area, wants to help you understand these differences.

No-Fault Insurance System

In a no-fault system, regardless of who caused the accident, each driver’s own insurance covers their injuries and damages. The idea is to reduce the number of lawsuits and streamline the claims process. However, this system might limit the ability to sue the other driver unless severe injuries are sustained.

At-Fault Insurance System

In contrast, the at-fault system determines which driver is responsible for the accident. The at-fault party and their insurance company are responsible for compensating the injured party. This system often involves determining negligence and can lead to more lawsuits than the no-fault system.

Hybrid Systems

Some jurisdictions adopt a hybrid system, combining elements from both no-fault and at-fault systems. Drivers might first tap into their own insurance but can sue the at-fault driver under specific circumstances.

Your Policy and Your State

It’s essential to know the system your state adheres to. While Texas is a no-fault state, many states that border Texas are no-fault states.

Whether you’re shopping for a new auto insurance policy or seeking clarity on your current one, understanding the difference between no-fault and at-fault systems ensures you’re better prepared and informed, safeguarding your interests on the road. If you have questions about your current auto insurance policy or want a new one, call Thompson Insurance Services, serving Highland Village, TX, for an estimate today. 

Navigating the world of auto insurance can be challenging for college students. With factors like age, driving experience, and vehicle choice affecting insurance rates, finding affordable coverage may seem daunting. As a trusted insurance provider, we at Thompson Insurance Services are dedicated to helping college students and their families find the right coverage at competitive rates.

Age and Driving Experience

Insurance companies often view younger drivers as high-risk due to their lack of experience behind the wheel, which can result in higher premiums. However, there are ways for students to secure more affordable coverage. We offer discounts for good grades, taking driver’s education courses, or maintaining a clean driving record.

Vehicle Choice

The type of vehicle a college student drives plays a significant role in determining insurance costs. Newer, more expensive cars may come with higher premiums due to increased repair or replacement costs. Older, less valuable vehicles might be cheaper to insure. Students should carefully weigh the costs and benefits of their vehicle choice and consult with an insurance professional.

Coverage Levels

College students should consider the level of coverage they need. While meeting the minimum coverage requirements mandated by the state of Texas is essential, students may want to assess whether additional coverage is necessary for their specific circumstances. For example, if a student drives an older car with minimal value, they might forego comprehensive or collision coverage to lower their premiums.

By maintaining good grades, selecting an appropriate vehicle, and choosing the right level of coverage, college students in Highland Village, TX, can find affordable auto insurance. For personalized guidance and a range of insurance options, turn to our expertise at Thompson Insurance Services, a trusted provider in the Highland Village, TX area.

Having an auto insurance policy in place is extremely important for anyone who drives a motor vehicle. The agents at Thompson Insurance Services in Highland Village, TX are explaining the types of auto insurance coverage options available for Texas residents.

Keep in mind that anyone who drives in Texas is held financially responsible for any injuries or property damage that they cause in an accident. Most people prepare for this worst-case scenario by having at least an auto liability insurance policy, so they will not have to pay a ton of money at once to cover the costs associated with an accident.

Auto Insurance Coverage Options

In addition to auto liability insurance, there are several other types of coverage options when it comes to auto insurance for motorists to obtain.

Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage

One type of auto insurance that many people overlook is uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. This will protect you and your vehicle if you become involved in a car accident deemed to be the fault of the other driver who does not have any insurance or an inadequate amount of auto insurance.

Comprehensive and Collision Insurance Coverage

Comprehensive insurance will help pay for any damages to your vehicle if it becomes damaged or destroyed by natural disasters, such as a tornado or hurricane. It will also help replace or repair your vehicle if it is damaged by a fire or an act of vandalism. This type of policy also comes in handy if your car is stolen.

Collision insurance is necessary to have in place in case you collide with another vehicle or even a stationary object. Collisions and comprehensive insurance policies are typically required for people to have in place by their lender if they borrowed the money to purchase their car, SUV, or truck.

Contact Us

The agents at  Thompson Insurance Services in Highland Village, TX are ready to assist you with your auto insurance needs. Call for a quote today!

Did you know that there are ways to improve your gas mileage?

You can do several things to help conserve fuel and get the most out of every tank.

In this post, we’ll discuss some easy tips that will help you save money on gas. Read on to learn more!

1. Check your tire pressure. One of the simplest and most effective ways to improve gas mileage is to check your tire pressure regularly. Under-inflated tires can decrease fuel efficiency by up to 3%, so ensure that your tires are properly inflated.
2. Use the right kind of fuel. In general, using premium fuel will not improve your gas mileage, so it’s best to stick with the type of fuel recommended by your car’s manufacturer. If you decide to switch to a different fuel grade, be sure to check your owner’s manual for guidance on how this might affect your car.
3. Avoid excessive braking and acceleration. Sudden braking and accelerating can decrease your gas mileage by up to 15%, so try to drive steadily and avoid rapid speed changes.
4. Plan your trips carefully. Planning your trips ahead of time can help minimize the number of unnecessary stops you make during your journey. 
5. Drive calmly and steadily. In addition to avoiding excessive braking and acceleration, it’s also important to maintain a calm driving style overall. Driving in a relaxed, steady manner can help save gas by reducing unnecessary wear and tear on your car.

If you have questions about how to save on gas or your insurance coverage, give us at Thompson Insurance Services a call today. We proudly serve the Highland Village, TX area.

When your Highland Village, TX teenager becomes old enough to drive, you need to add them as family on your policy before letting them practice driving. As soon as they get behind the wheel, the insurance company should handle the settlement if they cause an accident, not you. Thompson Insurance Services wants to help you understand the best ways to insure your teen for driving.

Teens Cost More to Insure

Prepare yourself because it costs more to insure teens than it does adults. Teens are newer drivers with less experience on the road.

Why?

Any accident your child causes, you want the insurance company to pay for it. If they make a common mistake and run into the mailbox, garage door, or back of the garage, you’ll need extended coverage, like comprehensive coverage, to pay for it.

Their Policy vs. the Family Policy

If your teen buys their own vehicle, you will need to insure them separately. If they purchase a used car, choose the state minimums, but if they purchase a new or nearly new vehicle, insure it with full coverage. If they will drive a family car, you can add them to your insurance policy, and they can typically remain on it until they leave for college.

Reducing Costs

Your teen has a few options for bringing down the cost of their insurance. They can take a defensive driving course to earn one typical discount. Some underwriters also allow the insurer to offer a discount for good grades. That 4.0 can translate to dollars saved, so make sure your child hits the books.

Contact Thompson Insurance Services

Let Thompson Insurance Services help you find the best solution to insuring your teen driver. We help Highland Village, TX families afford the coverage they need to protect their financial investment.

Auto insurance is required to own or operate a vehicle, but the different types can become confusing. At Thompson Insurance Services in Highland Village, TX, we offer auto insurance policies that meet the needs of our clients. 

Liability Coverage 

Liability coverage is required to drive a vehicle. If an accident is declared your fault, liability coverage will cover the other person’s damages. This includes damages to their car and medical expenses due to injuries caused by the accident. 

Collision Coverage 

Collision coverage will cover damage to your vehicle in an accident. Lenders often require it. Even if you don’t have a lien on your car, collision coverage is still a good idea. It can help protect your investment in your vehicle. 

Comprehensive Coverage 

Comprehensive coverage covers damage to your vehicle that occurs when the car isn’t in motion. This typically includes theft, fire, and vandalism. 

Medical Payments Coverage or PIP

In Texas, insurance companies are required to offer PIP or personal injury protection for $2,500. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, and funeral expenses up to the coverage limit. It covers the driver and passenger. 

Medical payments coverage, known as Med-pay, is an optional type of coverage. It will cover medical expenses in the event of an accident, regardless of whether you or the other driver were at fault. 

Under or Uninsured Motorist 

In Texas, insurance companies must offer under or uninsured motorist coverage. If someone hits you without insurance, this coverage will pay for your repairs or injuries. It also covers hit and run accidents. 

Auto Insurance at Thompson Insurance Services 

If you need auto insurance in Highland Village, TX, contact us at Thompson Insurance Services. We will help you select the right policy to meet your auto insurance needs.  

Insurance can be confusing and we at Thompson Insurance Services, serving Highland Village, TX, understand that. It’s why we go above and beyond to make sure that your questions get answered. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get on auto policies.

What is a deductible?

A deductible is an amount you’ll pay out of pocket for a claim before the insurance money kicks in. The higher this deductible is, the lower your monthly premiums will be and vice versa.

Does my car affect my insurance rate?

There are several variables that go into insurance rate such as age and experience of the driver and how long they’ve been insured previously, but the auto does factor into the premium too. It’s a mix of statistics on how often that type of car is stolen and how expensive it is to repair or replace. If this is a concern, we can discuss what cars typically have a lesser premium.

How much insurance do I need?

While the majority of states have a minimum amount of insurance that is required, it’s beneficial to have enough insurance to cover the replacement value, plus possible medical bills resulting from an accident. We can run the numbers and let you know what is a good starting point for your coverage so that you are never left in the dark on what is right for your situation.

Why do premium amounts change?

There are several factors that can affect the premium such as inflation, auto repair costs, etc. If you’ve had claims in the past it can cause a short-term increase in premiums. We’ll always try to get you the best premium price possible and go over ways to help reduce your cost.

What car is the safest?

Cars are safest when you are driving safe and your car is equipped with safety features such as stability control, airbags, and anti-lock brakes. These features help the car as much as being proactive in driving helps the driver. Drivers that don’t text and keep their attention on the road are always the safety feature that will transfer to whatever car they drive.

At Thompson Insurance Services we serve the Highland Village, TX area with pride. We want to be your go-to agency when you need coverage and will go that extra mile to make sure you understand everything about your policy. Call or come by today to see what we can do for you.

Defensive driving is a technique that savvy drivers use to be proactive about their safety when they are on the road. It is about thinking and planning ahead, even if you are only planning one minute ahead of you. It is a kind of driving taught by many driving schools, as it helps to avoid collisions and save lives. 

At Thompson Insurance Services, we want Highland Village TX drivers to be safe on the roads. Use these easy defensive driving tips to avoid accidents and claims on your Texas collision auto insurance.

Keep Scanning

It is not uncommon to have something run out in front of you when you are driving, or even have a car make a quick lane change or turn before you see it coming. Keep scanning every minute that you are driving.

You won’t be able to see everything all of the time. However, you will be able to catch anything that could impede your way on the road if it should happen. So many accidents can be avoided with this tip.

Brake Early

Braking early, and slowly, are defensive driving techniques that could save your life. This is all about giving space on the roads. To you, to other drivers, to the road. Slow down as early as you can, as often as you can, particularly in bad conditions. 

When you brake slowly and early, you give yourself time to think as well. If something is happening on the road, a slow brake method helps you to reason through the situation and avoid a catastrophe.

Have an Out

This defensive driving technique will hone your intuition on the road. Having an out on the road is having an idea of where you would drive if an accident happens. For many, the out is to the right. If you are in the farthest right lane, for example, having an out would involve swerving to the right onto a sidewalk if you have to or even a ditch.

The out is a space where no cars are located. You still might be in a precarious position. But you could avoid a collision by swerving to your “out” if a sudden problem came up. You would spot this problem if you were always scanning around you, and behind you.

Get Collision Insurance

When you are driving defensively, the mindset is a mindset of avoiding collisions. Collision insurance can give you peace of mind on the roads when you are using these tips. At Thompson Insurance Services, we want Highland Village, TX drivers to be prepared for every driving scenario that could lead to a collision. Call us for a quote today to make sure your policy is as thorough as it needs to be.