How to Know If You're the At-Fault Driver
More than any other factor, rates for your
auto insurance in Banning, CA are determined by your driving record. Good drivers with a clean history are likely to enjoy lower premiums, while drivers with one or more at-fault accidents must usually pay higher rates for coverage. Although, even safe drivers can get involved in a car accident from time to time.
Unfortunately, the blame has to be deciphered for the insurance companies. For every crash that happens on U.S. roads, someone is at fault. Therefore, if you're involved in a single-vehicle crash, you will automatically be deemed at fault and can expect that mark to stay on your record for some time.
Your insurer will likely determine fault based on the police report of the incident. While there can be exceptions, the general rules of thumb are as follows:
- If you struck another vehicle from behind, you would be deemed at fault, regardless of what the driver did.
- If you collide with a vehicle during a lane change, you'll be at fault if the other vehicle was in your blind spot or if the vehicle was already in the lane.
- If you ran a red light, stop sign, or other traffic control, you'll be deemed at fault.
Ultimately, the drivers' insurance companies will make the final decision regarding their driver's claim. However, with supporting evidence, you can avoid having to pay out on your insurance when you're not at fault. When considering your claim, check to see if any traffic laws have been broken - did a driver ignore a red light or could they have been speeding when the road accident occurred? These observations are not always easy to prove and usually require witnesses, but they can help to determine who was at fault in an accident.
Auto insurance can help you when involved in a car accident. Talk to the team at Little & Sons Insurance Services for expert advice on how to secure the right coverage for your needs, vehicle, and lifestyle, all at the right price.
