Does Your Insurance Go Up After a Claim That Is Not Your Fault?

Getting in a car accident means that you not only have to deal with injuries and car repairs, but you also have to figure out how to pay for your medical and auto bills. After a car accident that is not your fault, you want the other driver to pay for your damages without any inconvenience to you, including a rising insurance premium.

So the question arises: does your insurance go up after a claim that is not your fault? In Bridgeport, CT, everyone worries about their insurance rates increasing after filing a no-fault claim. Let’s break down what you need to know about insurance premiums after a no-fault accident in Connecticut.

Will Your Rates Increase After a No-Fault Claim?

In Connecticut, insurance companies have the option to raise premiums even if you weren’t at fault for the accident. While you may not be legally responsible after a claim that is not your fault, some insurers view your involvement in an accident as an increased risk. However, the actual impact on your premium depends on several factors:

1. The Insurance Company’s Policy: Different insurers have different guidelines. Some may raise your rates, while others offer accident forgiveness for first-time incidents.
2. The Number of Previous Claims: If you’ve filed multiple claims recently, even if none were your fault, an insurer may see you as a higher-risk driver and adjust your premiums accordingly.
3. Severity of the Accident: Larger claims that involve significant payouts may cause a greater impact on your rates compared to minor claims.

Prove that you are not a risk to your auto insurance company by maintaining responsible driving practices. Speak with a Bridgeport car accident lawyer to discuss your insurance premium after a claim that is not your fault.

Model a Responsible Driving Citizen

When negotiating with your insurance company, a long-term clean record goes a long way. Even if you cannot control other drivers, you can practice responsible driving that will help you identify a reckless driver when possible.

Keep your eyes on the road. Avoid distractions that deter you from focusing on the road, such as changing the music, entering an address into navigation, talking to people in the backseat, eating, and texting and driving. All of this can wait.

Watch for suspicious behavior. If you see a driver swerving in and out of their lane, taking a long pause at a green light, or breaking other driving laws, stay far away from the driver. Pull over and report them if possible.

Do not rely on the other drivers’ adherence to the law. Even if the light turns green, is everyone around you paying attention enough to move through the intersection safely? Even if you have the right of way, does the other driver acknowledge that they see you before backing out? Unfortunately, we cannot always rely on other drivers to practice safe driving behavior.

In the matter of your insurance premium going up after a claim that is not your fault, do what you can to avoid any accidents and maintain a clean driving record. This will prevent an increasing number of claims that lead to a high premium.

Connecticut’s No-Fault Insurance Laws

Connecticut is an “at-fault” state, meaning that the driver who is responsible for the accident is also responsible for covering damages. However, this does not shield you from the possibility of rate hikes if you are involved in an accident.

How to Minimize Rate Increases After a Claim That Is Not Your Fault

While it’s impossible to guarantee you will never get in an accident, there are ways to avoid rate increases from your insurance company if the other driver causes an unexpected accident. Look at these tips:

1. Ask About Accident Forgiveness: Some insurers offer accident forgiveness programs, which ensure that your first accident won’t result in a rate increase.

1. Shop Around: If your insurer raises your rates after a no-fault accident, it may be worth comparing quotes from other insurance companies to see if you can find a better deal.
2. Maintain a Clean Driving Record: A history of safe driving can often help lower premiums or qualify you for discounts, offsetting any potential rate increases after a no-fault claim.

Your chance of receiving a rate increase after a claim that is not your fault depends on your insurance company. You have the right to find an insurance company that stands behind you when the unexpected occurs. Work with a Bridgeport personal injury lawyer to minimize your rate increase.

Connecticut’s Regulations on Insurance Rate Changes

Connecticut’s Department of Insurance regulates insurance rate changes and ensures they remain within state guidelines. If you believe that your rates have unfairly increased after a no-fault accident, you can file a complaint with the department or consult with a Bridgeport car accident attorney experienced in insurance matters to better understand your rights.

You Have Rights to Fair Insurance Premiums After a No-Fault Claim

Even though you were not at fault for the accident, your insurance rates in Bridgeport, CT, could still increase. Each insurance company follows its own procedures for handling rate adjustments after a no-fault claim, making it essential to review your policy and understand your insurer’s practices.

If you’re uncertain or facing an unjust rate hike, consulting with Brill Law Group will help you know the next steps to take. By staying informed, you can protect your rights and possibly minimize the financial impact of a no-fault accident on your insurance premiums.