Two-Year-Old Partial Fault Accident
Location: MA
Auto Accident: 1 year, 10 months ago
Two years ago, my fiancé was involved in an accident in a parking lot when another car backed into the side of her vehicle. At the time, she was covered under her boss’s insurance plan since she was employed by the family.
Despite having evidence that she wasn’t at fault, her employer didn’t advocate much with the insurance company. Both parties were with the same insurer, and they ultimately decided on a 50/50 fault split for the incident.
Fast forward to now, we’ve just purchased her a new car and are in the process of gathering insurance quotes, but they’re significantly higher than expected.
Is there any way to challenge the fault determination from that accident?
If so, what steps should we take?
I have a feeling the answer will be no. If that’s the case, do you have any tips for getting better quotes?
Thanks in advance for your assistance!
It sounds like a frustrating situation, and I understand your concern about the impact of the accident on future insurance rates. Unfortunately, disputing the fault determination after significant time has passed can be challenging, especially since the insurance company already settled the claim as a 50/50 fault.
Here are a few points to consider:
Check the Accident Report: Review the official police report, if one was made. If there’s evidence supporting your fiancé’s claim (such as witness statements or video footage), that could strengthen your case.
Contact the Insurance Company: Reach out to the insurance company that handled the accident claim. Ask if they retain records of the claim and see if there’s any way to appeal their determination. However, keep in mind that many insurance companies consider their decision final after a claim is settled.
Consult with an Attorney: If there are grounds to dispute the fault and it is worth pursuing, consulting with an attorney who specializes in auto accidents may help. They can provide advice on whether you have a case and how to proceed.
Insurance Quotes: When gathering quotes for new insurance, try the following:
Defensive Driving Course: Completing a defensive driving course sometimes qualifies for discounts.
Declare the Accident Accurately: When you apply for quotes, accurately represent the accident. Transparency is crucial, as insurers can rescind coverage if they find discrepancies later.
While it may be challenging to change the original 50/50 fault determination, gathering your documentation and consulting with professionals could provide some pathways forward. Good luck!