Getting Insurance the Same Day as an Accident: What You Need to Know in Texas

Life can change in a split second. One moment you’re running errands or heading to work, and the next, you’re involved in a car accident. For some people, this moment of crisis also collides with another issue—their insurance coverage just started that very same day.

At McCraw Law Group, we’ve seen the confusion and stress this situation causes. If you were involved in a crash shortly after securing a new insurance policy, you might be asking: Am I still covered? Can the insurance company deny my claim? What happens next?

Here’s what you need to know if you were in a car accident in Texas and had just obtained car insurance the same day.

Is Same-Day Insurance Coverage Legal in Texas?

Yes. In Texas, once your car insurance policy is bound and effective, coverage begins immediately—regardless of whether it's the same day or not. You don’t have to wait days or weeks for protection to start. As long as your policy is active and premiums are paid (or a payment plan is in place), you're covered.

Most insurers will provide a digital or emailed confirmation once the policy is active. Keep this document, as it can be crucial in proving coverage at the time of the accident.

Why Getting Insurance the Same Day Can Raise Red Flags

While legal, getting insurance just hours before a crash can raise suspicion with insurance companies. They may view it as potential fraud—assuming the accident had already happened or was imminent when you purchased coverage.

This doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong. But it does mean your claim may be investigated more thoroughly. Common red flags include:

• The accident occurred within hours of the policy activation.
• The insured vehicle had prior damage not disclosed.
• There’s no prior insurance history on the car.
• The policy was taken out online without speaking to an agent.

If your situation is legitimate—and most are—you can still pursue compensation. But you should be prepared for added scrutiny and consider seeking legal support.

What Should You Do If You're in an Accident Right After Getting Insurance?

If you were involved in an accident the same day you started your insurance policy, follow these steps carefully:

1. Call the police – Always file an accident report to officially document the incident.
2. Notify your insurance company – Report the accident honestly and promptly.
3. Gather all documents – This includes your new insurance confirmation, proof of payment, and any emails from the insurer.
4. Take photos – Document the scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries.
5. Avoid speculation – Don’t make statements that could be used to question your intent.
6. Speak with an attorney – Contact McCraw Law Group before giving recorded statements or signing anything.

Can the Insurance Company Deny Your Claim?

Technically, yes—but only under certain circumstances. Insurance companies cannot deny a valid claim solely because the policy was new. However, they may investigate to ensure:

• The policyholder didn’t commit fraud.
• The accident occurred after the policy was in effect.
• The vehicle and driver were properly listed on the policy.

If fraud is suspected, they may delay or deny the claim until further investigation. Having legal representation during this time is crucial to avoid unnecessary denials.

What If You Didn’t Have Insurance Before the Accident?

If you purchased insurance after the accident—even just minutes after—it will not cover the crash. Insurance only covers accidents that occur after the policy’s effective time and date.

If you were uninsured at the time of the crash:

• You could face legal penalties (fines, license suspension).
• You may be personally liable for property damage or injuries.
• You may have difficulty pursuing a claim, even if the other driver was at fault.

McCraw Law Group can still help explore your legal options, especially if another driver was primarily responsible.

When the Other Driver Got Insurance the Same Day

Sometimes, you may not be the one who just got insurance—the other driver might have. This can complicate your ability to recover damages if their insurer denies coverage or investigates the claim.

If you suspect the other driver only recently became insured:

• Get a copy of the crash report.
• Ask your own insurance company to investigate.
• Contact a personal injury attorney to preserve your rights.

Your Rights as a Policyholder in Texas

Under Texas law, you have rights as an insurance consumer. Once your policy is active, the company is obligated to:

• Investigate your claim promptly.
• Handle your claim fairly and in good faith.
• Provide a clear explanation if coverage is denied.

If your insurer fails to act in good faith, McCraw Law Group may be able to pursue a bad faith insurance claim on your behalf.

How McCraw Law Group Can Help

If you were involved in an accident just after securing insurance, we understand the challenges you’re facing. Insurance companies may try to delay, minimize, or deny your claim based on suspicion—not facts.

At McCraw Law Group, we:

• Review your insurance documents and help establish your coverage timeline.
• Protect you from unfair insurance tactics.
• Build a strong case with evidence, witness statements, and expert analysis.
• Negotiate directly with the insurance company.
• Take your case to trial if needed to pursue full compensation.

We offer free consultations and don’t charge any fees unless we win.

Our Commitment to You

We understand that car accidents are traumatic enough without insurance complications. Our team of personal injury lawyers serves communities across Texas with compassion, integrity, and excellence.

Whether you’re in McKinney, Frisco, Denton, Amarillo, Wylie, or Sulphur Springs—McCraw Law Group is here to stand up for your rights and help you move forward.

Call Now for a Free Consultation

Don’t let a timing technicality jeopardize your right to compensation. If you’ve been in a crash the same day you got car insurance, call McCraw Law Group for trusted legal guidance.

Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help.

McCraw Law Group | Compassionate Advocacy. Real Results.