If you are responsible for a car accident, particularly if it involves injuries to the other driver or their passengers, your life may get more complicated. Among other worries, you may be facing a lawsuit from the other party and be concerned that you will soon see your insurance rates go up. If this has happened to you, attorney Dale Casares understands that car accidents can have a dramatic impact on your life, resulting in unexpected expenses and legal woes. Reach out to an experienced car accident attorney to discuss the legal implications of being at fault for an accident, and read on to learn more about what to expect when it comes to your insurance rates.
How Much Will My Insurance Increase After an Accident?
The amount of the increase in your insurance policy after being at fault for a car accident will increase depending on several factors, which may include the following:
- Your age
- Your driving history
- The location of the accident
- The severity of the accident
Other factors may also be considered in the final amount. The insurance company may also consider how many years you have been driving and whether you tend to get frequent speeding tickets or moving violations. They will also look at your driving record, how much time you spend on the road on a daily basis, and what make and model vehicle you drive.
What Factors Impact the Cost of The Policy?
There are some factors that will weigh heavier than others when the insurance company decides how much your policy should increase. Here are some possible scenarios.
The Severity of the Collision
When the car accident results in minor damage to both your car and the other driver’s, the increase will be much lower than when the vehicles are determined to be a total loss. Besides the damage to the car, the insurance company will also consider how recklessly you were driving, whether you were careless, and how much driving experience you have. Someone who just started driving six months prior to the accident and totals both cars will see a higher increase than someone with a long and uneventful driving record.
The Ticket You Receive
The police may get to the scene of the accident and not issue a ticket or not cite you. If, on the other hand, you are cited by the police for causing the accident, this will be counted as additional culpability, increasing your chances of getting a higher insurance rate.
Injuries and Property Damage
If there is major property damage and someone is killed or badly injured, the insurance company may face legal claims, medical liability, and more. If you damaged a home or business, the insurance company would also have to respond there. These significant expenses will translate into a higher premium for you.
Laws You Broke
In some cases, you may end up being at fault for a car accident due to bad luck. In others, it may be found that you were breaking the law by speeding, drinking while driving, or sending texts while behind the wheel. The insurance company will look at all of these factors, and any broken laws will be regarded harshly by the insurance company.
If you have been driving slightly over the speed limit, the consequences will be far milder than if you were driving while under the influence. That may also have you facing a DUI.