Report: More Uninsured Drivers Unleashed on Texas Roads

Allstate Issues 2009 Traffic Alert

IRVING, Texas, Jan. 30 -- More than 21,000 Allstate insured drivers in Texas were involved in car accidents with drivers who had no auto insurance in 2008. According to a recent report by the Insurance Research Council, the economic downturn could cause a jump in the number of uninsured motorists in the state.

Allstate Insurance Company is asking Texans to be prepared.

The report predicts the percentage of uninsured motorists could increase as unemployment rises. Currently, around four million people drive on Texas roads without proper insurance, according to TexasSure, the vehicle insurance verification database led by the Texas Department of Insurance.

Allstate says more uninsured drivers on Texas roads could mean a greater likelihood that if you're involved in an auto accident -- it may be with someone who has no auto insurance.

"Uninsured drivers add to the unpredictability of accidents," said Rhonda Young, an Allstate agent in Abilene. "Making smart choices before and after you get behind the wheel can protect you and your family."

Drive Defensively

Focus on the road: Put down the cell phone, make-up and food while driving. Make adjustments to your radio, mirrors and seat before driving.

Slow Down: Speeding is one of the top causes of auto accidents. Obey the speed limit.

Look Around: Pay attention to the drivers around you; make sure you keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the car in front of you and prepare for sudden moves other motorists may make.

Get Covered

Generally, uninsured motorist coverage provides protection for certain damages you (or another person insured under the coverage) are legally entitled to recover from the owner or operator of an uninsured motor vehicle. While coverage varies from state to state and is subject to applicable policy terms, the coverage is typically divided into two types:

Bodily Injury Coverage - helps pay for medical expenses you incur because of bodily injuries you sustain in an auto accident caused by an uninsured motorist. In addition to providing coverage for medical expenses, the insured may also be eligible for coverage for loss of wages or pain and suffering.

Property Damage Coverage - helps pay for damages to your car caused by an uninsured motorist. This coverage is not offered in every state, so check with an Allstate agent to find out if this is available.

Coverage may also be available, separately or as a part of the uninsured motorist coverage, for damages caused by an underinsured motorist.

For more tips on safe driving and information on uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, visit a local Allstate agent, call 1-800-Allstate or visit www.allstate.com .

The Allstate Corporation is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate(R)" slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through approximately 14,700 exclusive Allstate agencies and financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate(R). Encompass(R) and Deerbrook(R) Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers. Customers can also access information about Allstate Financial Group products and services at myallstatefinancial.com.