What You Should Know About Car Insurance in Laredo, Texas

Founded in 1755, Laredo is a city steeped in history and culture, known for its strong Mexican and American influences. As the largest inland port in the U.S., it plays a key role in international trade, and events like the Washington’s Birthday Celebration highlight its deep ties to Mexico.

Driving in Laredo is generally easy, with well-maintained roads and major highways like I-35 and US 59 offering convenient access. However, delays can occur at the international bridges, particularly during peak hours or events, so it’s a good idea to stay informed with real-time traffic updates.

In Texas, having car insurance is a legal requirement, and it’s essential to have the right coverage to avoid penalties like fines and license suspension. Opting for additional coverage options can provide extra protection in case of an accident or unexpected event.

Driving in and around Laredo can be challenging due to factors such as weather and traffic, so you are always protected with the best car insurance in Texas. At InsureOne, we offer top-rated insurance carriers, flexible plans, and affordable options.

How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Laredo, Texas?

How much you pay for car insurance depends on many factors, including where you live. In Laredo, the average car insurance for a 30-year-old male purchasing the state-required minimum averages $47 per month. If they choose full coverage, that goes up to $170 per month.

Nationwide, the average is $66 for minimum liability and $223 for full coverage. In Texas overall, the average is $214 for full coverage and $60 for the minimum. So, Laredo drivers may see lower than average car insurance prices compared to other places.

Keep in mind, many different factors go into determining your car insurance quote and it is not likely that you will be offered the same cost.

Auto Insurance
Ready to Get a Quick Quote?

What Does Full Coverage vs Minimum Liability Mean?

Full coverage and minimum liability are two types of car insurance that provide different levels of protection. Minimum liability is the minimum required by law in Texas and typically includes bodily injury liability, which covers medical expenses and legal fees if you’re at fault in an accident that injures someone else, and property damage liability, which pays for repairs to another person’s vehicle or property. However, liability car coverage does not cover your own vehicle or injuries if you’re at fault in an accident.

On the other hand, full coverage includes everything in liability, plus additional protections like collision coverage, which covers repairs to your car after an accident, and comprehensive coverage, which protects against non-collision damage such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.

It also includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which protects you if you’re involved in an accident with someone who doesn’t have enough insurance. In essence, full coverage offers more comprehensive protection for both you and your vehicle, while liability is more limited, only covering the other party’s damages if you’re at fault.

Affordable Car Insurance Rates Comparison by Cities in Texas

There are many factors that go into an insurance quote – location is a major one since some areas have more congestion, which leads to more accidents, which causes more claims. That is why where you live plays a part. Compare some other cities in Texas to the average in Laredo to see an illustration of how that works.

City Full Coverage Insurance Liability Insurance Coverage
Laredo $170 $47
Corsicana $204 $59
Dallas $184 $54
Garland $176 $54
Plano $162 $52

How Bundling Your Car and Homeowners Insurance Can Save You Money in Laredo

If you own a home in Laredo, it is possible to combine your Texas home insurance policy and your car insurance policy into what is known as a bundle. Doing this can save you up to 25-30% on your combined policies. Bundling your policies can save you money and simplify the management of your coverage, as everything will be handled by a single insurer. This makes it easier to keep track of your plans and renewals, all in one place.

Working with an independent agent at InsureOne allows them to compare bundling your policies versus buying separately, saving you time and money. You might even find a great deal that encourages you to add other coverage, like boat insurance, motorcycle, or life insurance.

Check with your InsureOne agent to discover the discounts offered by top-rated carriers for bundled packages. You may be pleasantly surprised by the savings you could unlock.

What Types of Car Insurance Discounts are Available in Laredo?

Everyone is eligible for some form of discount. New customers receive an introductory discount, while returning clients benefit from loyalty savings. Safe drivers typically receive the largest discounts, and bundling policies can provide additional savings. Membership in certain organizations may also lead to further discounts. Always consult your agent for more details. Here is an example:

Discount What It’s Worth
Good or Safe Driver 10-30% Off
Anti-lock brakes 3% Off
Auto-pay 5%
Military 15% on base, 90% deployed
Good Student 15%
Find an Office Near You

Notable Car Insurance Laws in Laredo

As part of the Dallas metro area and situated at the intersection of several major highways, Laredo drivers should exercise caution and adhere to all traffic laws. In Laredo, commercial or oversized vehicles are prohibited from parking in residential areas.

Additionally, vehicles that are inoperable or partially dismantled may not be parked within the city limits. Motorists who receive a moving violation citation can have it dismissed by successfully completing a driver’s safety course. It’s important for all drivers to follow these regulations to ensure safety and compliance on the road.

What are the Mandatory Car Insurance Requirements in Laredo?

Drivers in Texas are legally required to maintain minimum liability auto insurance coverage, commonly referred to as “30/60/25” coverage. This means drivers must carry:

  • $30,000 in bodily injury liability per person
  • $60,000 in bodily injury liability per accident
  • $25,000 in property damage liability per accident

This coverage ensures that if you’re at fault in an accident, your insurance will cover the medical expenses and property damage of others up to these limits. However, it’s important to note that this does not cover your own injuries or vehicle damage. Additionally, Texas law requires drivers to carry proof of insurance and present it upon request by law enforcement or when registering a vehicle.

While meeting the state’s minimum requirements is legally sufficient, many drivers opt for higher coverage limits or additional insurance types, such as collision, comprehensive, or uninsured motorist coverage, to better protect themselves financially in the event of an accident. It’s advisable to consult with an insurance professional to determine the best coverage options for your specific needs.

What is the Penalty for Driving without Insurance in Laredo?

The state of Texas does not want to pay for your mistakes on the road. That is why it is illegal to drive without insurance. If you are found to be driving without coverage, the penalties can be severe, especially if you have multiple offenses. Here are some penalties for driving without insurance in Texas:

Fines

  • First offense: Fines range from $175 to $350.
  • Subsequent offenses: Fines can increase up to $1,000 or more.

Vehicle Impoundment

  • If you’re caught driving without insurance, your vehicle may be impounded, leading to additional fees to retrieve it.

License Suspension

  • Your driver’s license and registration could be suspended. To reinstate them, you’ll need to provide proof of insurance (a financial responsibility certificate), which may involve further fees.

SR-22 Requirement

  • If your license is suspended, you may be required to file an SR-22 certificate, proving you have car insurance. This must be maintained for typically two years, and insurance costs may rise due to this requirement.

Increased Insurance Costs

Driving without insurance can lead to higher premiums when applying for new coverage and finding affordable insurance may become more difficult.

It’s important to have valid auto insurance in Texas to avoid these penalties and stay legal on the road.

What Factors Go into My Car Insurance Cost in Laredo?

Car insurance costs in Laredo are influenced by several factors. Your driving record plays a major role; a clean record leads to lower premiums, while a history of accidents or violations increases costs. The type of vehicle you drive also impacts your premium—expensive or high-risk cars tend to be more expensive to insure. Additionally, younger drivers, especially males under 25, generally face higher rates due to higher accident rates.

Credit history is another factor, as poor credit may lead to higher premiums, while good credit can help lower costs. Living in an urban area like Laredo, with higher traffic and accident risks, can also raise rates. The coverage levels and deductibles you choose will directly affect your premium, with higher coverage resulting in higher costs. Finally, taking advantage of discounts for safe driving or bundling policies can help reduce premiums.

Typical Driving Conditions in Laredo

Driving in Laredo, Texas, involves navigating major highways like I-35, U.S. 59, and Loop 20, which can experience congestion, especially near the World Trade Bridge due to heavy commercial traffic. This area is one of the most congested truck routes in Texas, leading to delays. Additionally, Laredo’s hot climate, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F in summer, can impact driving conditions, particularly during occasional thunderstorms from May to October, which may cause slippery roads.

Laredo is working to alleviate traffic with infrastructure projects like the Springfield Avenue Expansion and the La Gloria-Colombia road, which aim to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion.

To make driving in Laredo easier, keep these tips in mind:

  • Plan Ahead: Use real-time traffic tools like DriveTexas and LocalConditions to stay informed about road conditions and delays.
  • Avoid Peak Hours: Travel during off-peak times to avoid heavy congestion, especially near commercial zones.
  • Maintain Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained, especially tires and brakes, to safely navigate Laredo’s roads.

How Many Car Accidents Happen in Laredo Per Year?

Besides a high number of DUI incidents, aggressive drivers and accidents, Laredo saw 4,274 crashes with non-injuries in 2022 alone. The Texas Department of Transportation reported these numbers:

CRASH CATEGORY TOTAL
Total Fatal and Injury 6,028
Fatalities 20
Serious Crashes 78
Non-Injury Crashes 13,317
Unknown Severity 275

How Many Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists are in Laredo?

According to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, 1 in 5 drivers on the road are uninsured. Imagine driving on roads like Skyline Drive, Big Town Boulevard, or Motley Drive—it’s concerning to think that for every five cars around you, one may not have the means to cover repairs or medical expenses if they cause an accident and you’re injured.

While uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is not mandatory in Texas, it’s an affordable way to protect yourself in case of a crash with an uninsured driver. For just about 5% of your annual premium, UM coverage is a small addition that can help you avoid significant financial strain.

A film photograph of downtown Laredo with cars parked in front of storefront shops under the clear blue sky.

Get Covered by the Best Car Insurance in Laredo, TX Today

Make sure you’re protected on the road by adding Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage to your policy. It’s an affordable way to safeguard yourself in case of an accident with an uninsured driver. For just a small increase in your premium, you can enjoy extra peace of mind knowing you’re covered if the unexpected happens.

At InsureOne, we specialize in offering concierge service with flexible options to fit your specific situation. We’ll do the work for you and find you a policy that you approve. Get a quote online, visit us at an office near you, or call us at (800) 836-2240 for a quote.