Texas House Bill HB2136

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to mandatory personal injury protection.

Impact

The proposed amendment signifies a significant shift in how personal injury maintenance is administered within the automobile insurance landscape in Texas. By setting a minimum required amount of PIP coverage—up from a previous threshold of $2,500 to $10,000—HB2136 aims to provide broader financial protection to accident victims. This change could lead to improved health outcomes for injured parties as they would have better access to medical treatment immediately following an accident.

Summary

House Bill 2136 seeks to amend the Texas Insurance Code by instituting mandatory personal injury protection (PIP) coverage in automobile liability insurance policies. The bill specifies that no insurer can issue a policy covering motor vehicle liability without including PIP coverage, effectively making it a requisite for all such insurance providers. This mandate is intended to enhance the welfare of insured individuals by ensuring that they have access to vital medical benefits following a vehicular accident, thus promoting safety and security for drivers across Texas.

Contention

However, the bill has sparked discussions regarding the implications for insurance premiums and consumer choices. Opponents of the bill argue that making PIP mandatory could lead to an increase in insurance costs for consumers, as insurers may adjust their rates to accommodate the higher required coverage limits. Additionally, critics emphasize concerns over the potential loss of personal choice, advocating for the option to reject such coverage based on individual circumstances. This debate highlights the tension between broader safety measures and personal freedoms in insurance choices.