Understanding Traffic Records and Insurance Investigations After an At-Fault Accident
Recently, a driver involved in a rear-end collision in Texas noticed some intriguing details on their driving record. Despite being clearly not at fault in the incident, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) record now indicates a “CRASH EVENT” associated with their license, without specifying fault. This raises important questions about how such incidents are reflected in official records and how insurance companies evaluate these records during the underwriting process.
What’s Recorded and What It Means
In Texas, when a car accident occurs, a crash report is often filed with the Department of Transportation. The DPS record may then display the incident as a “CRASH EVENT,” but it doesn’t necessarily include fault information. For drivers, this means that a significant event appears on their official driving history, even if they were not at fault.
Implications for Insurance Shopping
When applying for auto insurance, many wonder whether insurers rely solely on state DMV records or if they incorporate additional sources like LexisNexis or CLUE reports. Typically, insurance companies do review their internal databases, which can include third-party data providers, to assess risk accurately.
Do Insurance Companies Use DMV Records or Third-Party Reports?
Insurance providers often utilize a combination of sources:
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State and DMV Records: These contain official crash and violation histories but may not specify fault in detailed manner.
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Third-Party Databases (LexisNexis, CLUE): These are comprehensive reports aggregating insurance claims, accident histories, and other relevant data collected from multiple sources. They can sometimes include details not reflected in state records.
How Do Third-Party Databases Obtain Their Data?
Third-party data aggregators like LexisNexis compile information directly from insurance companies, claims filed, and various public records. Insurance carriers frequently share data with these agencies under legal agreements, enabling them to create detailed risk profiles for drivers.
Final Thoughts
If you’re involved in an incident, even when not at fault, it’s important to understand how it might appear in your records. While state DMV records provide official documentation, insurance companies may also consult third-party reports to evaluate risk and determine premiums. Being aware of these processes can help in managing your driving history and understanding how your past incidents might influence future insurance decisions.
Key Takeaway: Maintaining a clean driving record is essential, but it’s also beneficial to know how different agencies and data sources communicate information about your driving history,
