There are many things to worry about after you’ve been in a car accident, such as how you’re going to pay for your medical bills and other financial losses. While that’s certainly stressful, some accident victims may see a rise in their insurance premiums.
It may or may not be the case for you, too, though understanding more about when insurance premiums might increase can help you know what to expect.
When Your Car Insurance Rates May Increase After an Accident
You may be in for an increase in your auto insurance rates in the following situations.
You Are Found At Fault in a Major Accident
Most of the time, a minor car accident won’t cause your insurance premiums to increase. However, if you were the one at fault for an accident that caused serious injuries or damages, you should expect those rates to rise.
You Had a Safe Driver Discount
In some cases, drivers may have a safe driver discount from their insurer. This rewards policyholders who go a certain duration without having any traffic accidents or violations. Since the discount will be revoked after an accident, you’ll end up paying more.
Circumstances That Mean Your Rates May Stay the Same
Insurance premiums don’t always increase after a crash. Here is when you may be able to breathe a sigh of relief.
You Had a Fender Bender
If you’ve always been a safe driver and you’ve gotten into a fender bender, it shouldn’t increase your rates. There may be a small increase depending on the damage or injuries that resulted, but many insurance providers won’t punish you for such minor collisions.
You Weren’t the At-Fault Driver
In many cases, safe drivers wind up in accidents because of someone else’s negligence. If you didn’t cause the accident and the evidence and investigation confirm this, you should not receive a higher premium for your auto insurance.
You Have Accident Forgiveness on Your Policy
Some insurers offer accident forgiveness the first time you are at fault in a crash. If you have driven safely up to this point and continue to do so afterward, you should not see a jump in your rates.
What If the Other Driver Blames You for the Accident?
Now that you know when rates may increase, you may wonder what you should do if the other driver is trying to pin the blame on you. Both your insurance company and the other driver’s insurer will investigate the claims to determine who is at fault.
With modified comparative negligence laws in this state, it is possible that you may receive some portion of fault. This is why it helps to speak with a car accident attorney who can protect your legal rights and help you navigate the legal process. Your lawyer can help prove your case and prevent you from being saddled with liability if you did nothing wrong, which would ultimately help keep your insurance from increasing.