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Will a Car Accident Affect My Insurance Rates?

Written by Jared Staver

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Jared Staver is a Personal Injury Lawyer based in Chicago, Illinois and has been practicing law for over 20 years.

Jared Staver

CATEGORY: Auto Accidents, Insurance


Following a car accident, you may be worried that your car insurance rates will increase. After all, car insurance is expensive, and you don’t want to spend more money than you have to. Truthfully, in some situations, your rates will go up, and in others, they will remain the same. To learn more about how you may suffer a higher insurance rate after a car accident, continue reading below.

If you’ve been involved in a car crash, it is in your best interest to call a highly skilled lawyer from Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. at (312) 236-2900 for a no-cost case consultation. We’ll inform you whether to expect a higher insurance rate after a car accident and can assist in recovering the full and fair compensation you may be entitled to.

When Do Car Insurance Rates Stay the Same?

Contrary to popular belief, car insurance rates do not always skyrocket after a car accident. If you are involved in a minor accident or fender bender, your insurance prices will not necessarily increase. This is particularly true if you have been a safe driver.

Your car insurance premiums could remain the same if the accident was not your fault. In the event your car insurance policy includes accident forgiveness, your rates will likely stay the same if you have a healthy driving history.

When Do Car Insurance Rates Increase?

If you are at fault for a major accident, your car accident rates are likely to increase. However, your driving record plays a significant role in determining your premium, so it’s essential to be a defensive driver and maintain a good, clean record. You may also face a rate increase if your insurance policy comes with a safe-driving discount that you were granted due to staying a safe driver.

How Long Will I Have Higher Insurance Rates?

Unfortunately, your driving history will follow you for quite some time after a serious accident. Your insurance company will take the severity of the crash as well as the cost of the damages to determine the increase and the length of time you’ll have to pay higher premiums.

Fortunately, your rates may decrease each year you drive without sustaining a car accident. This acts as an incentive to drive defensively and take extra caution while on the road. It is also important to remember that you have the right to switch insurers if you are disappointed with your current company and their higher insurance rates.

How a Lawyer Can Help

If you’ve sustained an injury in a car crash caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s essential to consult a lawyer to craft your defense. They can ensure the liable party’s mistake does not negatively impact your car insurance rates. In addition, they can increase your chances of securing the maximum compensation you may deserve for your damages. Your reward can be used to pay for:

  • Vehicle damage
  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress

Contact Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. For a Free Consultation

For more information on how an accident will impact your car insurance rates or assistance with filing your car accident claim, you should reach out to Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C.. Our car accident attorneys serve clients throughout the Chicago area, including Aurora, Elgin, Hinsdale, Joliet, Naperville, and Waukegan.

For a free, no-obligation consultation, contact us at (312) 236-2900 today.

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(312) 236-2900
(312) 236-2900
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