Short answer: In Texas, if the other driver’s policy won’t cover your medical bills, you may still have options—your own UM/UIM, PIP/MedPay, health insurance, and sometimes claims against other responsible parties. Acting fast, documenting care, and getting a case review can protect your rights.
Ryan Orsatti Law in San Antonio helps people sort this out with personal attention and direct attorney access. The firm maintains a 5.0-star Google rating and clients often note clear updates and strong results—one client even said, “They got me the max.” (See real quotes below.)
Texas Minimums & Why Bills Outrun Coverage
- Texas minimum liability is 30/60/25 ($30,000 per person, $60,000 per crash for injuries, $25,000 for property).
- ER visit, imaging, and therapy can exceed those limits quickly—especially after 18-wheeler, rideshare, or multi-car crashes.
Tip: Don’t assume the at-fault driver’s limits are the end of the road. There are often stacked paths to pay necessary care.
Your Recovery Paths When Limits Are Too Low
| Path | What It Covers | When It Helps | Proof You’ll Need |
|---|---|---|---|
| UM/UIM (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist) | Medical bills, lost wages, pain/impairment (per your policy) | Other driver has noinsurance or not enough | Police report, medical records, your policy declarations |
| PIP (Personal Injury Protection) | Medical + some lost wages, no fault needed | You carry PIP on your Texas policy (often $2,500–$10,000+) | Policy docs, medical bills, wage proof |
| MedPay | Medical bills only | You chose MedPay instead of PIP | Bills and policy docs |
| Health Insurance | Immediate treatment at in-network rates | You need care now; may repay plan later (subrogation) | Insurance card, EOBs, bills |
| Third-Party Liability | Business/employer of at-fault driver, vehicle owner, bar/restaurant (dram-shop)* | Driver was working, driving a company car, or overserved | Time sheets, delivery logs, vehicle ownership, receipts/camera |
| Property Damage Add-Ons | Total loss, rental, diminished value | Your car is out of service or worth less after repair | Photos, repair estimates, appraisal |
| Hospital & Provider Solutions | Letters of protection, billing holds | When paying upfront is hard | Treatment notes, attorney LOP |
* Dram-shop claims depend on facts and deadlines; not every case qualifies.
Step-by-Step: What to Do Next
- Get the policy picture. Ask for the other driver’s insurer and limits. Pull your declarations page for UM/UIM and PIP/MedPay.
- Use your benefits early. PIP/MedPay can help right away, regardless of fault.
- Treat and document. Follow your doctor’s plan and keep every bill, EOB, and receipt.
- Protect your statements. Give only basic facts to insurers until you’ve had a case review.
- Watch the clock. Texas generally has a two-year statute of limitations for injury claims (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003).
- Consider all defendants. Was the driver on the job? In a company or rideshare vehicle? Any bar overserving evidence?
- Value the claim correctly. Include past/future care, lost income, and non-economic harms supported by your records.
FAQ (Texas)
What if I didn’t buy UM/UIM?
You can still pursue the at-fault driver and any other responsible party (employer, owner, dram-shop where facts allow). Health insurance can bridge treatment while the claim runs its course.
Will my health plan get repaid?
Often yes—subrogation rules may apply. Skilled handling can reduce paybacks so more goes to your net recovery.
PIP vs. MedPay—what’s the difference?
PIP covers medical and some lost wages and doesn’t require fault. MedPay covers medical bills only.
Can I claim beyond policy limits?
Sometimes. If multiple parties share fault or assets/umbrella coverage exist, recovery may extend beyond one policy. Each case turns on its facts.
Why neighbors in San Antonio choose Ryan Orsatti Law
- Personal attention & direct access: Clients speak with Attorney Ryan Orsatti, not just a case manager.
- 5.0-Star Reviews (hundreds): “From our first call, we knew we were taken care of.” — Jessica D. “They kept me informed the entire process.” — Towanda L. “They got me the max and were there every step.” — Penny M.“Always available to answer my questions.” — Brookes F.
- Local insight: Based in Northwest San Antonio (De Zavala Rd.) with deep experience across Bexar Countycourts and adjusters.
- Clear, calm guidance: The firm helps coordinate care (LOPs when needed), confirms all coverage paths (UM/UIM, PIP, employer/dram-shop angles), and keeps clients updated at each step.
Sample Claim Map When Policy Limits Are Low
- Verify other driver’s limits → 2) Open your PIP for immediate help → 3) Treat under health insurance/LOP → 4) Investigate employer/owner/dram-shop → 5) Present demand supported by medical proof and liens → 6) If needed, file suit and pursue all defendants within the two-year window.
Comparison Snapshot: Handling It Alone vs. With Counsel
| Issue | Going Solo | With Ryan Orsatti Law |
|---|---|---|
| Identifying all policies (UM/UIM, umbrella, employer) | Easy to miss | Systematic coverage audit |
| Medical billing & lien reductions | Confusing, time-consuming | Coordinated care + reduction strategies |
| Proving future care/lost earning capacity | Often under-valued | Uses records, opinions, and proper documentation |
| Keeping you updated | DIY, insurer-led | Direct contact with Ryan + frequent case updates (clients praise this 5.0-star service) |
Ready to talk through your coverages—free case review
Ryan Orsatti Law
4634 De Zavala Rd, San Antonio, TX 78249
Call/Text: 210-525-1200
An attorney will review your policy options, medical bills, and deadlines—so you can focus on healing while a plan is built around your needs.
Real Client Voices (San Antonio)
- “Got me the max and were there every step of the way.” — Penny M.
- “Always available to answer my questions.” — Brookes F.
- “Kept me informed… never left me in the dark.” — Vanessa S.
- “Professional, caring, and respectful… I highly recommend.” — Jamie H.
This blog is for informational purposes only, not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future results.