After resolving your car accident claim, you might be eager to get back behind the wheel, having regained financial stability, mental well-being, and physical readiness.

Yet, as you resume your daily routine, you could face difficulties when discussing insurance premiums with your provider. A car accident can leave a lasting mark on your record, affecting several aspects of your life.

This article delves into how having an auto accident on your driving record impacts your insurance rates and other potential consequences it might entail. It also discusses how a top Georgia car accident attorney can assist you in navigating the legal complexities.

What Does a Car Accident on Your Record Affect?

Insurance Rates 

Whether you drive occasionally or work as an Uber driver, having insurance coverage in Georgia is crucial in the event of a motor vehicle accident. Georgia law mandates carrying at least liability insurance, which covers bodily injuries and vehicle damage.

While opting for minimum coverage can lower your auto insurance premiums, it may leave you vulnerable in certain situations. Making informed decisions, such as adding uninsured motorist insurance to your policy, can provide protection if the at-fault driver lacks adequate coverage.

However, if you're deemed at fault, filing a claim for an accident on your record could lead to a significant increase in insurance rates—potentially up to 60%. This substantial hike can have lasting financial consequences.

Conversely, if you're the victim and found less than 50% at fault, your insurance rates may remain unaffected, sparing you from additional financial strain.

Therefore, understanding the specifics of your insurance coverage and the potential impacts of an accident can empower you to make informed choices and safeguard your financial well-being.

Public Record 

Similar to insurance rates, your public record may remain unblemished if there were no injuries and property damage totals less than $500.

In such instances, apart from accruing points for a traffic violation, the accident itself may not appear on your record, and you might not need to file a police report, thereby preserving a clean driving history.

However, if points are applied due to the car accident, it will be documented on your public record. This can be detrimental to maintaining an untarnished driving history, especially when pursuing employment that necessitates a pristine record.

Maintaining a clean public record is crucial not only for personal peace of mind but also for professional opportunities. Employers often review driving records as part of their hiring process, particularly for roles involving driving. A record devoid of accidents or traffic violations can enhance your employability and demonstrate responsible driving habits.

Therefore, comprehending when a police report is necessary and how traffic infractions are recorded can assist you in effectively managing your driving record and avoiding potential repercussions.

How Long Does a Car Accident Stay on Your Record?

The duration that a car accident remains on your insurance record varies depending on your insurance provider. While many insurers have an extensive lookback period, some only consider incidents from the past 24 months. This highlights the importance of understanding all aspects of your insurance policy.

During this period, your insurance rates may rise due to the recent accident. However, these rates are likely to gradually decrease and return to a more manageable level once the lookback period expires.

Typically, an accident remains on your public record for up to seven years, unless you were found to be less than 50% at fault. In such instances, the accident may not be reported on your public record, which can be beneficial for maintaining a spotless driving history.

Understanding these timelines and how fault is determined in a car accident can assist you in navigating insurance claims effectively and safeguarding your driving record.