Will my insurance premium increase if I make a “not at fault” claim?

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When you’re involved in an accident where you are deemed “not at fault,” it means that the responsibility for the accident lies with the other party involved. This could be due to their negligence, reckless driving, or any other factor that caused the accident.

Understanding not-at-fault claims

A not-at-fault claim arises when you are involved in an accident caused by another driver. In these situations, the other party is responsible for the accident. For example:

• You are rear-ended at a stoplight by a distracted driver.
• Another driver runs a red light and collides with your vehicle.
• Your parked car is hit by a driver who loses control of their vehicle.

These incidents highlight scenarios where you are not responsible for the damages incurred, yet you may still need to file a claim with your insurance company.

How insurance companies determine premiums

Insurance premiums are influenced by a number of factors, including:

• Driving record: A clean driving record generally leads to lower premiums, while a history of accidents and violations can increase rates.
• Claim history: The frequency and severity of past claims play a significant role in determining your premium.
• Age and gender: Younger drivers often face higher premiums due to a lack of driving experience.
• Location: Areas with higher traffic density and accident rates typically lead to higher premiums.
• Type of vehicle: The make, model, and age of your car affect repair costs and, consequently, your premium.
• Credit score: In some states, insurers use credit scores as a factor in setting premiums.

When assessing risk, insurance companies consider your overall claims history, which includes both at-fault and not-at-fault claims.

Impact on insurance premiums

In most cases, making a “not at fault” claim should not increase your insurance premium. This is because the fault lies with the other party, and your insurance company understands that you were not responsible for the accident.

However, insurance premiums can be influenced by various factors, such as your driving history, claims history, and the overall risk associated with insuring you. While a “not at fault” claim may not directly impact your premiums, these other factors still play a role in determining your premium.

Final thoughts

Even if you’re not at fault, making multiple claims within a short period might signal a higher risk to your insurer. This could lead to a premium increase. Some states have laws that prevent insurers from raising preventing after “not at fault” claims, while others might allow it.

Review your insurance policy and contact your insurer to understand how “not at fault” claims could impact your premium. Focus on maintaining a clean driving record to be in the good books of your insurance company.