Whether you were at fault for the accident will impact what happens to your auto insurance premiums. This, in addition to ensuring you collect fair compensation from the other party’s insurance, is why it’s important to demonstrate the other party’s liability if you weren’t at fault.
What happens to my insurance when I’m at fault for an accident?
If you cause an accident, it’s likely your premiums will increase. Sometimes if it’s your first accident, your rates may not increase or the increase may be relatively slight.
A clean driving record may not be enough if there was significant property damage to the other person’s vehicle or if someone was seriously injured. In some cases, an insurance company will drop you if you cause too many accidents.
When happens to my insurance when I’m not at fault for an accident?
When not at fault for a crash, your rates generally won’t go up. Georgia Code §33-9-40 prohibits insurers from surcharging your premiums or dropping your policy if you aren’t at fault for an accident.
Your insurance company may play a role in a car accident that’s not your fault, especially if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or you recover from your other coverage like medical payments.
In most circumstances the at-fault driver’s insurance company will be responsible to pay for all damages, such as:
- car repairs;
- medical costs;
- lost wages; and
- other losses.
Even if you file a claim with your uninsured motorist or other coverage, your rates will not increase. As you navigate the insurance claims process, get help from attorney Jason R. Schultz. Set up a consultation: (404) 474-0804. Also check out our free Ultimate Guide to Accident Cases in Georgia – The Truth about Your Injury Case.