Car accidents can result in significant injuries and potentially fatal consequences. Even if your injuries are minor, you could be faced with a large vehicle repair bill that could cause financial strain. If you live in the state of Georgia and drive in any capacity, it is imperative you have enough car insurance to protect you.

Is Insurance Required in Georgia?

All drivers in Georgia must carry liability insurance, which will pay for property damage and injuries to another driver. This liability insurance must be at least $25,000, though some drivers will purchase more for additional coverage. Georgia is considered an “at-fault” state, meaning the driver who causes the car accident is liable for the damages. If the driver doesn’t have insurance, you will be required to pay out of your own pocket. There may also be cases where it is unclear which driver caused the accident, or both contributed to it in some way. In those instances, both drivers’ insurance companies may need to cover accident damage.

How Will My Insurance Be Affected?

Some insurance companies may increase the rates or premiums after a car accident, as they see the driver in question as riskier and more likely to get into accidents. Your rates could increase after an accident due to the insurance company’s tendency to minimize risk and discourage reckless driving. However, your rates won’t always increase after an accident, especially if you do not have a history of car accidents. If you are not at fault for a car accident, your insurance company may not increase your rates. In some cases, though, your company may raise your rates depending on their policies. If you can prove you’re not at fault, your insurance shouldn’t be affected. However, if the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may still see your rates increase as a result.

How Much Can My Rates Change After a Car Accident?

If your insurance rates increase after an accident, they could increase only slightly or by a significant margin. This depends on your history of claims, the cost of your current claim, and more. In any car accident matter, your insurance company will be tasked with mitigating risk and preventing reckless driving behavior. To accomplish this, they will likely increase your rates to ensure there is ample coverage should you get into another accident.

What Happens If I Switch Insurance Companies?

If you attempt to switch insurance companies as a result of a car accident, you may see an increase in your new plan’s rates. The reason for this is that your new company will check your previous plan’s records. They will see your driving history, including any car accidents you’ve been in, and determine how risky you are. No insurance company is the same, and each has a different way of determining their premiums. If you do intend to switch insurance companies, you may want to gather various quotes and compare them before making a switch.

Speak With Legal Representation Today

Legal matters can be complicated to handle on your own, especially if your actions have affected another party as well. Insurance is designed to protect you if you experience an accident, but there are cases where you don’t have the coverage you need, which could cause financial problems down the line. If you have any questions or concerns regarding insurance, we can help. Our team at Lamar Law Office, LLC has worked with hundreds of clients in the state of Georgia who have experienced car accidents. Insurance can be difficult to understand, but we can provide the resources and legal representation you need to ensure the best results possible. For more information, contact us today.