Car accident victims are often dealing with serious medical bills, lost income, property damage, and other out-of-pocket expenses. These damages can produce a great deal of financial distress. Unfortunately, the potential for heightened insurance costs may also add to victims’ hardship.
Insurance premiums might increase following a car accident in Texas. Insurers often raise rates because of the increased risk associated with accidents, especially if you were found at fault. However, the extent of the increase depends on various factors such as the severity of the accident, your driving history, and your insurance provider’s policies. Our legal professionals can provide guidance on navigating insurance claims and negotiations to minimize potential premium hikes and ensure you receive fair compensation for damages sustained in your accident.
Get help from our Dallas car accident lawyers at The Queenan Law Firm, P.C. by calling (817) 476-1797 for a free case assessment.
Insurance Premiums After a Car Accident in Texas
One common concern for individuals involved in accidents is whether their insurance premiums will increase as a result of their crashes. As previously discussed, the answer to that question is “maybe.” Several factors influence how insurance companies determine changes in premiums after collisions. Our Texas can accident attorneys can help you understand these factors so you may better navigate the aftermath of your car accident and make informed decisions regarding your insurance coverage.
Driving Record Assessment
Insurance companies typically review an individual’s driving record when assessing the impact of a car accident on their premiums. If you have a history of traffic violations or previous accidents, your premiums may be more likely to increase because of the added risk you pose as a driver. Conversely, if you have a clean driving record, the impact on your premiums might be less severe.
Severity of the Accident
The severity of the accident plays a significant role in determining insurance premiums. If the accident resulted in significant damage to vehicles or property, or if there were injuries or fatalities involved, insurance companies may view you as a higher-risk driver. In such cases, your premiums are more likely to increase compared to minor accidents with minimal damage or injuries.
Fault Determination
In Texas, fault is an important factor in car accidents, as it follows the modified comparative fault rule. Insurance companies will assess the degree of fault attributed to each party involved in the accident. If you were found to be partially or fully at fault for the accident, your insurance premiums could increase because of the perceived higher risk associated with your driving behavior.
Claims History
Insurance companies also consider your claims history when determining the impact of a car accident on your premiums. If you have a history of filing multiple claims, regardless of fault, it may result in higher premiums because of the increased likelihood of future claims.
Policy Coverage and Limits
The specific coverage and limits of your insurance policy can influence how much your premiums increase after a car accident. Policies with higher coverage limits typically come with higher premiums, so if you have comprehensive coverage and high liability limits, your premiums may increase more compared to someone with basic coverage.
Individual Insurance Company Policies
Each insurance company has its own policies and criteria for determining premium adjustments after a car accident. Some companies may offer accident forgiveness programs or loyalty discounts that could mitigate the increase in premiums for qualifying policyholders. It’s essential to review your insurance policy and consult with your provider to understand how they handle premium adjustments after accidents.
Can Your Insurer Raise Your Premiums in Texas After an Accident that Was Not Your Fault?
Yes, it’s possible for your insurer to raise your premiums in Texas even if the car accident was not your fault.
Even if you were deemed not at fault for the accident, your insurer might still raise your premiums because being involved in an accident, regardless of fault, can indicate an increased risk of future claims. Additionally, if the accident resulted in significant damages or injuries, the insurer may view you as a higher-risk policyholder. It is important to understand that fault does not necessarily exempt you from potential premium increases after a car accident in Texas.
How Our Attorneys Can Help When Dealing with Insurance Companies After an Accident in Texas
It is crucial that you do not speak with your insurance company or any other party’s insurance company after your crash without first consulting with our legal professionals. There are several ways that we can help when dealing with insurers in your case.
Negotiation
Our legal team has extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies. We can fight to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses. We will work tirelessly to advocate for your rights and negotiate the best possible settlement on your behalf.
Evidence Collection and Documentation
Our legal team will gather all relevant evidence including medical records, witness statements, expert testimonies, and any other information that may be used to strengthen your claim. This assistance can be very valuable when proving faulting and seeking maximum compensation.
Claims Management
Dealing with insurance claims can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover from injuries. Our legal professionals will handle all aspects of your insurance claims, including paperwork, communication with adjusters, and ensuring that deadlines are met, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Litigation Representation
If negotiations with insurance companies fail to produce a satisfactory outcome, our lawyers are prepared to take your case to court. We have a track record of success in litigating car accident cases and will aggressively advocate for you in the courtroom.
Peace of Mind
Finally, dealing with insurance companies can be stressful and time-consuming. By entrusting your case to our experienced legal team, you can have peace of mind knowing that your rights are being protected, and you have dedicated advocates fighting for the payment you deserve.
Call Our Law Firm for Help with Your Car Accident Claim in Texas
Get assistance from our Fort Worth car accident lawyers at The Queenan Law Firm, P.C. by dialing (817) 476-1797.