After a car accident, the last thing that you want to think about is whether your insurance rates are going to rise. There is a common misconception that if you file a claim, then your insurance rates might go up. This is not necessarily the case. In fact, there are several factors that determine whether your rates will go up. Here is what you need to know.
Your Unique Policy
When it comes to car insurance, every person’s policy is different. Your policy will determine whether you see a spike in your insurance rates or not. Some car insurance companies offer accident forgiveness, regardless of who is at fault. It is up to you to check your policy.
Who Is at Fault
Insurers do care about who is at fault. If you were in an accident due to someone else’s recklessness with no fault of your own, odds are that the insurance company will not raise your rates. If you were to blame, however, then your rate may increase based on how the accident occurred. Some reckless behaviors will see a higher jump in rates than others.
Your Driving Record
Your insurance company may look at your driving record following an accident. Are you a safe driver? Some drivers may not have a ticket or accident to their name for years. If you are in a minor accident and have a clean driving record, the insurance company may not raise your rate at all. However, if you are an unsafe driver with multiple incidents behind you, one more may be enough to raise your rate. In most cases, however, insurers love safe drivers, particularly loyal and safe drivers.
The Severity of the Accident
The severity of the accident can affect your rate. For instance, if your windshield cracks or shatters due to an incident with no other damages, your claim and your rate may look different than what would occur if you were in a major accident. Minor incidents may not raise your rate, while a major car accident could.
There are many different factors for an insurer to consider when it comes to increasing your rates. If you were in a car accident, you should never be afraid to file a claim. If you deserve compensation for your damages or injuries, do not let fear of the insurer stop you. To find out how to file your car accident claim, contact a lawyer, like a personal injury lawyer from Davis & Brusca, LLC, for a consultation today.
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