Can I switch insurance companies after an accident?

Many clients have asked us this very question. The simple answer is yes. As long as your policy was effective on the date of the collision you will be covered by that company for that loss. Where you have your insurance policy after that will not affect your current claim. One thing to remember is that some insurance companies have loyalty programs or give discounts for long term customers. So keep this in mind when switching to a new company.

Will my insurance rates go up after a motor vehicle accident?

If you are not at fault for the collision your rates will not go up because of the collision. In other words, if you make a claim through your insurance company for No-Fault benefits your rates will not go up simply because you made the claim. However, if through the collision your insurance company found out about other people living in your household, or other vehicles in your household, that you had not previously disclosed, they can raise your rates. Often times people mistake the insurance company raising their rates due to making a claim for No-Fault benefits, when in actuality the rates were raised due to other reasons. If you think your rates were raised unlawfully, do not hesitate to contact the attorneys at Bennerotte & Associates.

If you are at fault for an accident, the insurance company does have the right to raise your rates. Once a claim against your policy is made for property damage to either your vehicle or somebody else’s due to an accident that you caused your rates may go up.

Where’s the $40,000.00 in injury protection the radio promised me?

These ads on the radio are slightly misleading. The $40,000.00 the radio is referring to is a combination of the minimum Personal Injury Protection policy limits required to maintain in the state of Minnesota. $20,000.00 is for medical expenses, such as medical bills, prescriptions, and mileage to and from appointments. The other $20,000.00 is for lost wages and for replacement services if you are unable to perform your household chores. These are the limits of the policy, not what is guaranteed to get paid out. The law reads that UP TO that amount is available but does not have to get paid out. If your injuries do not require $20,000.00 in medical expenses, then the full limit of $20,000.00 may not get paid out.

At Bennerotte & Associates, we will make sure to explain the No-Fault system to you in a way you understand. We will also never misguide you and will always be sure to tell you how the system works.

Do you have any more questions about insurance policies after a motor vehicle collision?

Please feel free to comment on my blog and ask questions. We will be sure to address as many as we can and we would love to help. Please do not hesitate to contact our office for any legal advice you may need.