Will My Insurance Be Affected After a Car Accident If It’s Not My Fault?

If you were involved in a car accident that was not your fault, you may wonder whether it will increase your insurance rate. While it may seem unfair, policyholders who get into collisions caused by another driver may still see their rates increase in certain cases. Whether or not it will increase can depend on your car insurance coverage, the severity of the damage, and other factors. But even if your rate does go up, it’s unlikely that it will increase as much as it would in an accident where you are liable. 

Why Would My Insurance Rates Go Up After an Accident That Is Not My Fault?

If you’re in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, your insurance rates might increase, which can be confusing. However, there are several reasons why your rates might go up after an accident, even if you were not at fault.

Insurance companies consider various factors when setting and increasing rates. One significant factor is the likelihood of a policyholder being involved in a collision. To the insurance company, even an accident that was not your fault could indicate a higher probability of future accidents.

What Factors Are Used to Determine My Car Insurance Rates?

Some of the factors that insurance companies consider when determining rates include the following:

• Driving history – Insurance companies will consider a person’s driving record when determining their rates. In fact, it’s one of the most important considerations. The insurer may deem a driver a high-risk customer if they have a history of traffic violations or car accidents. The severity of the violations on a driver’s record could also lead to more expensive rates.
• Car make and model – If you drive a car with low safety ratings, you can expect to pay more for insurance because there is a higher likelihood of being involved in a collision. Vehicles that are statistically more likely to be stolen could also be more expensive to insure.
• Credit score – A driver’s credit history can impact their premiums depending on where they live. Some states consider a customer’s credit score when setting rates, but others prohibit insurance companies from taking a customer’s credit score into account. However, if you have great credit, you may pay lower premiums.
• Age and gender – Typically, younger drivers pay higher rates because they have less experience on the road and are more likely to get into accidents. However, drivers over the age of 65 may pay higher rates because they are more likely to be involved in collisions and suffer injuries when they are. Insurance rates are also typically higher for men, especially middle-aged men and teenagers.

How Is Fault Determined in an Accident?

Insurance companies and attorneys will investigate a car accident and gather evidence to determine who is liable for the resulting injuries and damage. Some of the evidence that a car accident attorney may use to prove fault in an accident include:

• Police accident reports
• Photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, property damage, skid marks on the road, debris on the road, and traffic signals
• Video footage from dash cameras, traffic cameras, or nearby surveillance cameras
• Statements from witnesses who saw the crash, including other motorists or bystanders
• Testimony from accident reconstruction experts explaining how the accident occurred

Is Indiana a No-Fault State?

Indiana is not a no-fault state for auto insurance. This means an accident victim will file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance policy to seek compensation for medical bills and lost wages. In other words, the negligent party in a car crash is liable for injuries and other damage resulting from the collision.

Do Some Insurance Companies Offer Accident Forgiveness on Their Policies?

Some insurance companies offer accident forgiveness, which means a policyholder’s rates will not increase if they are involved in an accident. However, not all companies provide this coverage, and it may cost extra. You should review your policy after a collision to determine what is covered.

Is There Any Way I Can Lower My Insurance Premiums?

There are ways to work at reducing your insurance premiums. If your rates have gone up after an accident that was not your fault, you can try to lower your premiums by doing the following:

• Shop around – Different insurers offer different rates, so compare quotes from multiple providers.
• Take a defensive driving course – Some insurers give discounts for completing a defensive driving course, which can also improve your driving skills.
• Improve your credit score – Better credit scores often lead to lower premiums. If you work on improving yours, it can benefit you in numerous ways.

Can My Insurance Company Drop Me for Multiple Claims?

Insurance companies can cancel a customer’s policy or refuse to renew a policy based on various factors. You should avoid filing multiple claims per year, even if you are not at fault for the accidents giving rise to the claims. If you have any questions about your coverage, speak to a car accident lawyer.

Contact an Indiana Car Accident Lawyer

If you were involved in a car accident in Indiana that was someone else’s fault, you need an experienced attorney to protect your legal rights and interests. The Indiana car accident lawyers with Truitt Law Offices can help you seek the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and other losses after a collision. For over 40 years, we have advocated for injury victims in Indiana and can do the same for you.

Our firm has a successful track record of securing million-dollar and six-figure verdicts and settlements for clients injured by negligent parties. We will work tirelessly to pursue the financial relief and justice you deserve. Contact our office today for a free consultation.

Visit Our Indiana Car Accident Law Offices