Texas Transportation Code § 601.191 – Unlawful Operation Without Insurance
Table of Contents
Statutory Text:
Sec. 601.191. OPERATION OF MOTOR VEHICLE IN VIOLATION OF MOTOR VEHICLE LIABILITY INSURANCE REQUIREMENT; OFFENSE.
(a) A person commits an offense if the person operates a motor vehicle in violation of Section 601.051.
(b) An offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $175 or more than $350.
(c) If a person has been previously convicted of an offense under this section, the offense is punishable by a fine of not less than $350 or more than $1,000.
(d) A court may waive the fine if the person shows evidence of compliance with Section 601.051 at the time of the offense or before the defendant’s first court appearance date.
What This Law Means for Injury Victims
This law makes it a crime to drive without liability insurance in Texas. If you are hurt in a car crash and the other driver is cited under § 601.191:
It confirms a legal violation that supports your personal injury claim
It may justify punitive damages for reckless disregard of safety
It often means you must pursue compensation through UIM coverage
This violation can strengthen your legal case significantly, especially when combined with physical injuries and property damage.
Example Scenario
You’re struck by a driver who admits they have no insurance. Police issue a citation under § 601.191. The citation helps establish liability in your injury case and supports a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage. If the driver has prior violations, your attorney may also seek punitive damages.
When This Law Applies
This law applies when a person:
Drives any motor vehicle on Texas roads
Does not carry the required insurance or other proof of financial responsibility under § 601.051
Is pulled over or involved in an accident
The offense is enhanced for repeat violators, showing a pattern of disregard that may help your attorney argue for higher compensation.
Related Statutes
§ 601.051 – Insurance Requirement
§ 601.193 – Enhanced Penalties for Repeat Offenders
§ 601.371 – Proof of Responsibility After Accident
§ 1952.101 – UIM Insurance Rights
§ 542.056 – Claim Response Timelines for Insurers
Texas Case Law Interpreting § 601.191
Confirmed that driving without valid insurance is a misdemeanor offense under § 601.191.
Reaffirmed that lack of funds is not a valid excuse for driving without coverage.
Held that administrative penalties for no-insurance violations are valid and enforceable.
Frequently Asked Questions About § 601.191
Houston Personal Injury Lawyer - Joel A. Gordon
They can be cited for violating this law, and you may be entitled to compensation through your UM/UIM coverage.
Yes. It is a misdemeanor and can result in fines, court costs, and even license suspension for repeat offenses.
A citation under § 601.191 helps prove negligence and may increase your chances of recovering damages, especially through your own insurer.
Yes. But collecting from them may be difficult unless they have personal assets. This is why UIM coverage is essential.