The Insurance Ramifications of At-Fault Accidents 

Many states, Missouri included, have at-fault auto insurance laws. This means that when a Missouri driver is at fault for an accident, they will have to pay for both their own accident costs and the costs of harm that they did to others. 

As a result of these at-fault laws, Missouri drivers are required to buy auto liability insurance. It is designed to help you pay for the injuries, property damage and other losses that you cause others when you make mistakes behind the wheel. 

When at-fault accidents occur, it is always better to know how your auto insurance covers the potential results. Let’s take a look at how your benefits might help you in these cases, and the impacts that an at-fault accident claim can have on your policy itself.

1. Liability Lawsuits

At-fault car accidents are accidents that you cause. Sometimes, the only victims might be yourself and your car. However, if you harm others by hitting another car, backing into a building or causing another driver or pedestrian injuries, then you have a legal obligation to repay that party for their losses. In some cases, those harmed by your mistakes will even sue you for their losses.  

In these cases, your liability insurance will respond. It can both cover settlement costs and legal fees that might arise from these claims. Therefore, you won’t have to bear the burden of your mistakes all on your own. Thought you must carry minimum levels of coverage, you should always increase your policy limits to your advantage.

2. Physical Damage Claims

When an accident is your fault, you must pay for your own vehicle damage. If your auto policy contains physical damage insurance, then your plan can assist you with your losses. Collision insurance will help you pay to repair your car or replace your vehicle, subject to deductibles and other limits. 

Physical damage insurance is not automatically included on basic liability-only auto plans. However, including it in your policy package is a smart investment.

3. Increased Insurance Premiums

One of the negative ramifications of at-fault car wrecks is that they could lead to higher insurance premiums. 

When you cause a wreck, your claim on your policy is going to cost your insurer money. Additionally, the fact that the accident was your fault is going to prove to your insurer that you are a high-risk driver. To alleviate the risk you pose them, they might have to increase your premiums.

If you have been involved in an at-fault accident, or if you just want to make sure you tailor your auto policy to your advantage in case of any eventuality, then just get in touch with your agent. They’re happy to help you determine how your policy can be of advantage to you in these tough situations.