Whether filing an accident report will affect your driving record depends on the seriousness of the accident and the laws in your state. Generally speaking, minor accidents that do not result in injuries or significant property damage may not be recorded on your driving record. However, more serious accidents, such as those involving injuries, fatalities, or extensive damage, will likely appear on your record. These entries can remain on your record for several years and may be visible to insurance companies, employers, and other entities that conduct background checks.
Effects on Insurance
Filing an accident report, even if you do not make a claim, can potentially impact your insurance rates. When an accident occurs, your insurance company may investigate the incident to determine who was at fault and the extent of the damages. If you are deemed to be partially or wholly responsible for the accident, your rates could increase, regardless of whether you filed a claim. This increase may vary based on the severity of the accident, your claims history, and your policy's terms and conditions.
Exceptions
There may be certain circumstances where filing an accident report does not affect your insurance rates or driving record. These may include:
1. Accidents Not Involving Moving Vehicles: If the accident occurred while your car was parked or not in motion, it may be excluded from your driving record.
2. Accidents with No Damages or Injuries: If there is minimal or no damage to vehicles or injuries sustained by any parties involved, some insurance companies may not record the incident.
3. Accidents with Shared Fault: If both parties involved in the accident are found to be partially responsible, your insurance company may not impose surcharges or penalties on your policy.
4. Company Policy: Some insurance companies may have specific guidelines regarding when an accident report may impact your insurance rates. Consult your policy documents for more details.
In case you are involved in an accident, it is always advisable to consult with your insurance provider or an experienced insurance agent to understand the potential implications of filing an accident report and take appropriate actions to mitigate any negative consequences.
