🤔WHAT KIND OF ACCIDENT WILL INCREASE MY CAR INSURANCE RATE?

A very normal question after our client has had an accident is… "Is this going to raise my rate?"

In California, the rules are very clear. An accident will only increase your premium if it meets all three of these conditions:

1. You are at least 51% at fault. (If you're 50% or less at fault, state law protects your rate).

2. Total damage exceeds $1,000 or includes an injury/death.

3. Your insurer pays out (or expects to pay out) a claim.

3 Quick Rules to Know:

• The 3-Year Impact: At-fault accidents generally stay on your rate for 3 years (though going 5 years claim-free can earn you extra discounts).

• No "Accident Forgiveness": California state law prohibits insurance companies from offering accident forgiveness programs. If an accident is rated at-fault, it has to be applied by the insurance company.

• 30 Days to Appeal: If you disagree with an at-fault decision, you have 30 days from written notice to request a "second opinion" review by a different claims representative.

Need Help with a Claim? Navigating an accident scenario can be tricky. If you ever need help reviewing a claim or understanding your options, give our team a call at (323) 773-4429. We're always here to help…and as a no broker fee agency, you will never pay anything extra for our support.