Glossary term
At-fault accident
At-fault accident: A crash for which you are assigned the majority of responsibility; typically surcharged for three to five years.
Where this term matters
Guides and entries on this site that use the term.
Guide
How Much Car Insurance Goes Up After an Accident
Typical premium increases after an at-fault accident by claim size and state, when the increase appears, and why two insurers can react very differently.
Guide
At-Fault vs Not-at-Fault Accidents and Your Insurance
How insurers determine fault, what partial fault means, how not-at-fault claims are treated, and why a not-at-fault accident can still cost you.
Entry
What to Do Right After an Accident (For Your Insurance)
The steps at the scene and in the following days that protect your claim and your rate: safety, documentation, reporting, and what not to say.
Entry
How a Teen Driver's Accident Affects Household Car Insurance Rates
Understand why accidents involving teen drivers trigger severe insurance surcharges and learn strategic options to keep household premiums manageable.
Entry
What to Do If Car Insurance Drops You After an Accident
Learn what steps to take if your insurer issues a non-renewal notice after an accident, how to avoid coverage lapses, and where to find replacement coverage.
Entry
Can Telematics Lower Your Car Insurance After an Accident?
Discover how usage-based insurance and telematics programs can offset accident surcharges through verified safe driving habits and mileage tracking.