Here is Everything You Need to Know About Your At-Fault Car Accident Record
If you’re ever been in a car or truck accident, you will understand the challenges of that experience.
When you’re the at-fault party in an accident, the stress levels are even higher. You may be wondering how this at-fault car accident will affect your car insurance rates and how it marks your driving record in the long term.
Unfortunately, an at-fault car accident will contribute to higher car insurance rates and may stay on your driving record for a while – depending on the particulars of your car accident.
Understanding the impact of at-fault accidents on your Texas driving record is essential for future opportunities and better insurance rates. With the help of a car accident lawyer, you can ensure your current driving record does not ruin your future.
Understanding Your Texas Car Accident Record
In the Lonestar State, at-fault car accidents are documented through multiple channels. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) maintains detailed crash reports, while the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) keeps comprehensive driving records for all licensed drivers to provide guidelines for car insurance companies.
While an at-fault car accident is on your driving record, your insurance company will be aware of the incident. This may impact your accident insurance premiums and raise your rates.
Everything regarding your safety and performance on the road will be listed on your driving record:
- Driving history
- Complete documentation of all car accidents
- Traffic violations
- License suspensions
- Citations and tickets
- Driving-related criminal offenses
Your Car Accident Record’s Impact on Your Future
An at-fault car accident on your record can factor into several aspects of your life, including:
Accident Insurance Premiums
When insurance companies calculate their rates, they take car accidents very seriously.
After an at-fault accident, you might see your premiums increase significantly – as much as 35% if you have a poor driving record. Even non-fault accidents can lead to rate increases. These changes typically persist for three to five years, affecting your car insurance costs long-term.
Employment Opportunities
A poor driving record can impact your future career prospects significantly. Studies show that approximately 70% of employers check driving records during their hiring process – especially for positions that involve significant driving responsibilities. Your driving record may even impact professional licensing opportunities for commercial truck driving positions.
Legal Standing
At-fault car accidents can have serious legal consequences – especially if you have multiple incidents on your driving record. Four or more convictions within a single year can result in license suspension and can appear on your criminal record. This invites intense scrutiny in any future car accident cases.
How Long Does a Car Accident Affect Your Car Insurance?
Do accident records go away? The simple answer is yes.
In Texas, car accidents typically remain on your driving record for three to five years. This period can vary depending on whether or not you’re the at-fault party and the severity of the damages. Serious violations can stay on your record for longer periods, while minor accidents tend to stay on record for a shorter period of time.
Please note that the three-year period on your driving record starts from the date of the accident, not the date of the insurance claim. This means that even if you wait a few months to file an insurance claim, the clock has already started ticking on the accident date.
After the three-to-five-year mark, the accident will no longer appear on your driving record. That means you can apply for auto insurance or have a license check done without any stress.
Not-At-Fault Car Accidents on Your Driving Record
Even if you’re not responsible for a car accident, there may still be an impact on your driving record. However, it will be minimal.
That said, it’s still crucial to report the incident to your car insurance company, as these situations tend to benefit from proper legal documentation. Having a professional car accident lawyer on your team can help ensure your rights are protected throughout the entire process.
While no-fault accidents do usually appear on your driving record in Texas, insurance companies don’t increase your costs as much as they would for an at-fault car accident.
Your best bet is to maintain a clean driving record overall. Consider a defensive driving course to refine your skills and help you avoid accidents in the future.
Protecting Your Rights After an At-Fault Car Accident with the Help of Angel Reyes & Associates
A personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference in protecting your rights after an at-fault car accident.
With over 30 years of experience in at-fault car accident cases in Texas and a 98% success rate, our incredible team of personal injury lawyers will hold your hand every step of the way. We will work tirelessly to ensure proper documentation of your car accident, protect your driving record from unfair marks, challenge any incorrect fault determinations, and help you navigate complex car insurance issues that may arise.
Don’t wait, don’t hesitate.
The compassionate team of attorneys at Angel Reyes & Associates takes a people-first approach, fighting for our valued clients as they face the challenges of complex at-fault car accident issues head-on. Allow us to guide you by removing the stress from the equation as we handle all communication and negotiation with your accident insurance company on your behalf.
Contact us today for a free consultation, or stop by one of our offices in Dallas, Fort-Worth, Houston, or Austin so we can discuss your case face-to-face. You’re in good hands with Angel Reyes & Associates.
No matter who is at fault, you are not alone.
