Will my Insurance Rates Go Up After an Accident Where I’m Not At Fault?
You're driving down the highway one day when suddenly you're rear-ended by another car. The accident might be a minor fender bender, and you weren’t at fault, but it still worries you.
You will have to submit a claim for fixing the fender. But does this mean your insurance rates will go up?
To learn more about this and whether your insurance rates will increase if you are not at fault, continue reading!
Will My Insurance Rates Go Up?
In most instances, your insurance rates won’t go up. However, insurance companies can give a percentage of fault to each driver, and you might see an increase.
Unfortunately, there is no clear cut answer that says that your rates will not go up as it depends on the insurance company, your plan, and the accident situation.
In Texas, insurance companies can raise your insurance rates even if another driver caused an accident. In fact, safe drivers often experience an increase in insurance rates even when no claim is made.
Texas drivers can also have their insurance canceled after two not-at-fault accidents in a year!
Unfortunately, dealing with car insurance companies can be frustrating. If you can, try to get first-time accident forgiveness added to your plan for some lee-way!
Who Pays for Damages in Texas?
In a tort state like Texas, the at-fault driver responsible for an accident must pay medical expenses and other property damages to the other driver.
The exception would be if the other car was parked and unoccupied or if it had been abandoned by its owner.
This process is often completed through insurance companies, and usually the drivers don’t need to speak with the other driver or their insurance company once the claim is submitted (although you will have to provide details to your insurance company and take your vehicle to get estimates).
It’s extremely important that you get this process right so that the claim is approved and you aren’t held liable for damages. A reputable personal injury attorney can explain your rights and help you navigate through the process.
Liability Coverage in Texas
The requirement for Texas drivers is to have at least $30,000 in liability coverage for personal injuries and vehicle or property damage.
Liability coverage is a part of the insurance system that helps to protect (in this case) drivers from paying out of pocket for vehicle damage. When a driver is underinsured or uninsured, they may be required to pay for damages out of pocket.
In accidents where you are affected but you are not at fault, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.
To ensure the claims process is smooth, be sure to document the accident. Take pictures on your cell phone so that there aren’t any problems down the line.
You will need to get the driver’s information (even their driver’s license number) and their insurance information.
Why You Should Submit an Insurance Claim Even When You Aren’t At Fault
You might want to avoid your insurance company because you are worried about the hassle or your rates going up.
But there is no need to do this.
Additionally, it could make the situation worse. If you decide to negotiate with the other driver and their insurance company to get some money, you might miss some of the damages on your vehicle and have to pay out of pocket.
You may also discover that the offending motorist's insurance has lapsed, or they are uninsured or underinsured.
Why You Should Consider a Personal Injury Lawyer Following an Accident
Dealing with insurance companies is not always straightforward.
Additionally, the person who caused the accident might be driving under another vehicle’s policy or without coverage. And if you have a high deductible or are in an area where the rates are already higher, this could be devastating for you.
If you’re worried about this process or experience conflict, then we recommend you reach out to personal injury attorneys.
At Rose Sanders Law Firm, PLLC, we have the expertise in accident claims and dealing with insurance, and we can fight on your behalf and get you the settlement that you deserve!
We know how insurance companies work and can help you file a compensation claim for lost wages, emotional trauma, vehicle damage, or medical expenses.
When Should I Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer?
It is vital that you contact a Texas Personal Injury Law Firm right after the accident because time is of the essence. A personal injury lawyer can support you with:
- Dealing with insurance companies
- Advising you on when claims should be submitted
- Advising you on when you should get a medical check (often 72 hours from the time of the accident)
- Provide recommendations on navigating your work situation and wage loss compensation
- Getting more compensation than what insurance companies want to give
- Getting you the compensation you deserve.
A qualified attorney can also negotiate on your behalf for compensation to cover pain and suffering or lost wages.
There might be an opportunity to recover financial damages not covered by your policy. In this case, a personal injury lawyer can help.
Contact the Personal Injury Attorneys at Rose Sanders
In the US, car insurance rates can go up if you file a claim for an accident that wasn't your fault.
If you have been in an accident and are looking for a personal injury lawyer, don’t hesitate to reach out to us here at Rose Sanders.
In fact, there are many instances when it is better to consult with us early on in the process.
An early consultation provides your lawyers with opportunities for gathering evidence such as photographs, videos, or statements from witnesses who may not have contacted law enforcement yet.
Doing so early will help ensure that every detail of your case is accounted for and we can start building your case and mitigating issues.
Rationale
Will your insurance rates go up if another driver caused an accident?
In most cases, your rates won’t go up. However, some Texas insurance companies give a percentage of fault to each driver, and this might drive your premiums up.
Unfortunately, this process is not clear as it depends on the insurance company, your plan, and the accident situation.
Hire a personal injury attorney as they can deal with the insurance companies and get the compensation you deserve.
You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.
Reach out to personal injury attorneys at Rose Sanders Law Firm, PLLC.
Call us today and we'll be happy to answer any questions you might have!
