How Much Will My Insurance Go Up After an Accident?
Car accident victims have much more than medical bills and vehicle repairs to worry about following a collision. If you are in a car accident, besides having to pay for accident-related losses, your insurance premiums may increase. This will depend on your circumstances, including the crash’s severity, driving history, and if you are deemed at fault.
If you have recently been in a crash, our personal injury lawyers are prepared to help you recover the compensation you need to pay for accident-incurred expenses. We are also prepared to protect your rights and prevent your premiums from increasing.
Auto Claim Statistics
2022 data indicate the following regarding auto claims in the United States:
- 0.77% of people with liability insurance had a bodily injury claim, while 2.58% had a property damage claim.
- 4.54% of collision insurance policyholders submitted a claim, compared to 4.06% of comprehensive insurance policyholders who submitted a claim.
- The average property damage claim was $6,551, in contrast to the average bodily injury claim of $26,501.
Factors Can Increase Your Insurance Premium
Severity of the Crash: Suppose you were involved in an accident that resulted in serious injuries or extensive vehicle or property damage. In that case, you can expect a rate increase upon policy renewal. That is because a serious crash comes with high costs—which somebody must bear.
Your Driving History: If you have previous claims about your policy, then there is a higher likelihood that your rates will increase. While some companies offer accident forgiveness, it generally only applies to the first accident in which you are considered at fault. Accident forgiveness is usually an add-on coverage, and the specifics vary between insurers. For instance, some insurers require that you drive accident-free for a certain period before accident forgiveness coverage kicks on. Always check the fine print of your policy to determine if you qualify.
Fault: If you are at fault in an accident, your insurance company may consider insuring you as a gamble, increasing your auto rates. The data reveals that drivers found liable in one accident pay 43 percent more in insurance premiums than drivers with a clean record who receive the same coverage. Be aware that in Pennsylvania, your claim will not be outright denied if you share your fault with other motorists.
However, under the state’s comparative negligence law, drivers 51% or more at fault are barred from recovery. A claims adjuster will do everything in their capacity to demonstrate your liability, which is why it is crucial to work with a PA car accident lawyer who is fighting for you.
Speak with Our Personal Injury Lawyers Today
At Mette Attorneys at Law, we know the hardship accident victims face following a collision, including lost income and sacrificing time with loved ones. Our firm believes that nobody should be held responsible for the carelessness of another motorist. That is why our PA personal injury lawyers are committed to finding pertinent evidence to establish your lack of accountability, preventing your insurance premium from skyrocketing. To learn more about our services or to schedule your consultation, contact us online or call (717) 231-5219.