After being in a car accident in Florida, many people wonder, “How long does this stay on my insurance record and even influence my premium?” The length of time a car accident stays on your record depends on several factors, such as fault, severity, and possibly your insurance company’s policies.
How Long Does an Accident Stay on Your Record?
In Florida, a car accident will typically stay on your insurance record for three to five years. The actual effect will depend on the following:
- At-Fault vs. Not At-Fault: If you were found at fault, the accident would probably be on your record for a longer time and affect your insurance premiums more drastically. If you were not at fault, the impact on your rates would probably be negligible.
- Insurance Company Policies: Each insurance company has its assessment of accidents. Some insurance companies only consider accidents that occurred within the last three years, while others may go back five years or more when assessing policy rates and renewals.
- Traffic Violations & Serious Injuries: If the accident was a result of a traffic violation, DUI, or serious injuries, it may remain on your record for a longer period and cause higher rate increases.
Can You Reduce the Impact on Your Insurance?
Although an accident will stay on your record for many years, there are ways to reduce the financial damage:
- Safe Driving Discounts: Most insurers provide discounts if one maintains a clean driving record despite having an accident.
- Shopping Around for Better Rates: By obtaining quotes from different providers, you can find a more affordable deal.
- Legal Assistance: An experienced attorney might help negotiate with insurers and make sure your rights are protected.
Bottom Line!
We at Jenkins Law PL know how stressful car accidents can be. If you’re having trouble with your insurance company, we can provide expert legal guidance and work to minimize the impact on your record and premiums.
This post was written by Kelly-Ann Jenkins of Jenkins Law P.L. Kelly-Anne is a Homeowners Insurance Attorney St Petersburg FL. She focuses on insurance claims and property damage. The information on this site is not intended to and does not offer legal advice, legal recommendations, or legal representation on any matter. Hiring an attorney is an important decision, which should not be based on advertising. You need to consult an attorney for legal advice regarding your situation.
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