One of the most common concerns drivers have after an accident is that their insurance rates will go up. Many of my car accident clients worry if they file any claim with their insurance company, it will lead to a higher premium. That is not always the case. Who was at-fault for the car accident, along with the policyholder’s previous driving history, will determine whether or not insurance rates will rise.
Insurance companies set rates for their policyholders annually, and people who are considered high risk drivers will see higher rates.
The Impact a Car Accident Has on Insurance Rates
A new study by insurancequotes.com confirms that drivers who make claims against their automobile insurance policy do see an increase in premiums. By law, auto insurance rates in California are based on three things – driving safety record, number of miles driven each year and years of driving experience.
In determining whether or not to increase a policyholder’s premium after he or she has been in accident, insurance companies consider the following:
- Fault – If it is determined that a policyholder was not at-fault for an accident, his or her insurance rates should not increase as a result of the accident. On the other hand, a policyholder who is determined to be at-fault for an accident will likely receive a rate increase.
- Driving Safety Record – An experienced at-fault driver who has not been in an accident or received a moving violation in several years may receive a relatively small rate increase. An at-fault driver with several incidents and/or moving violations could see a very large rate increase.
- Insurance Policy – Some companies offer insurance policies that include “accident forgiveness” clauses whereby a driver’s first accident will not increase his or her insurance rates.
Fault is an Important Factor in Determining Insurance Rates After an Accident
Since Southern California policyholders’ rates are based upon only three things – driving safety record, number of miles driven each year and years of driving experience – being at-fault for an accident can have a major impact on a driver’s insurance rates. If you are involved in an accident caused by another driver, you may not be considered at-fault. If that is the case, you will not be making a claim against your insurance company. The other driver’s insurance company will compensate you for your damages, and your premiums should remain the same.
The determination of who was at-fault for an auto accident is not only key to determining insurance rates, it is important to guaranteeing an accident victim is properly compensated for his or her medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you are injured in a car accident, consult with a personal injury attorney who can make sure blame for the accident is properly assigned to the at-fault driver. This will protect your premiums and ensure you receive the maximum compensation for all your damages.
Contact an Experienced Long Beach Automobile Accident Attorney to Assist You with Your Claim
“Your Injuries are Personal to Me”
My law practice exclusively represents personal injury victims and does so with a deep understanding of their suffering and an absolute commitment to their recovery. I take your injuries personally, and that is why I directly handle all aspects of every case to ensure that you receive maximum compensation.
Call the Law Office of Michael D. Waks at 888-394-1174 or use the convenient online contact form to schedule a free consultation. You are under no obligation and you will never pay any money unless you recover damages for your injuries. I offer bilingual services as part of my comprehensive approach to legal representation and I am available 24/7 to talk to you about your case.
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