Does Car Insurance Cover Drunk Driving Accidents?

Many drivers assume their rates stay the same after a not-at-fault accident, but that’s not always the case. Depending on how your insurer evaluates risk and how Utah law applies, your premium may still increase, even if someone else was at fault for the crash.

Understanding Auto Insurance Rate Increases

Understanding insurance rate increases is crucial for every driver, as they directly impact your financial well-being and ability to maintain continuous coverage. Unforeseen hikes can strain your budget, making it difficult to afford necessary insurance and potentially leaving you vulnerable in the event of an accident.

By understanding the factors that influence premium adjustments, you can proactively take steps to mitigate increases, such as improving your driving record, seeking discounts, or shopping for new policies, ultimately ensuring you get the best value while staying protected on the road.

Why Insurance Rates Go Up After an Accident

Insurance companies don’t just consider fault when evaluating whether to raise your premiums after an accident, but they also assess your overall risk profile. From their perspective, being involved in any accident, even one where you weren’t at fault, can signal a greater likelihood of future claims.

This is because statistics show that drivers who have recently been in a crash are more likely to be involved in another one, regardless of the circumstances. Even a non-chargeable accident may trigger adjustments during insurance underwriting after a collision, especially if your provider emphasizes statistical risk over fault alone.

As a result, some insurers use accident involvement as a risk indicator. Even if the other driver was clearly responsible, your presence in the incident may prompt the insurer to reevaluate your likelihood of future losses.

That perceived increase in risk can trigger a premium hike, notably if your policy lacks accident forgiveness or if you’ve had prior claims.

Utah’s At-Fault System and Its Impact on Premiums

Utah uses a modified comparative negligence system. The at-fault driver’s insurance typically pays, but even partial fault on your part can impact your claim and your rates.

This means even a not-at-fault accident in Utah may still lead to an auto insurance rate increase depending on how your insurer interprets Utah’s comparative negligence rules.

What Happens to My Insurance If I Wasn’t at Fault?

Statistics suggest that drivers involved in a crash are more likely to be involved in another, which leads some insurers to reevaluate your risk profile. This perceived increase in risk can trigger a premium hike, especially if your policy doesn’t include accident forgiveness or if you have a history of prior claims.

While it may feel unfair, being involved in a not-at-fault accident in Utah can still have a measurable insurance impact, particularly if your carrier’s risk model relies heavily on statistical likelihood rather than legal fault.

Is a Rate Increase Still Possible?

Yes. Some companies still impose a claim surcharge, even after a not-at-fault accident, citing the increased likelihood of future claims.

This is where distinctions between “no-fault” and “at-fault” states become blurred in underwriting practices. However, Utah law requires insurers to justify rate increases based on actual risk data.

How Insurers Determine Fault and Risk

Adjusters use police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction to assign fault. Even if you aren’t ticketed, your insurer may assign partial liability and raise your rate accordingly.

Your claims history and driving record also play a role.

Utah accident insurance laws do not prevent insurers from adjusting rates based on risk models, even if legal fault lies elsewhere. Understanding how property damage liability and comparative negligence intersect with underwriting is key.

How Utah Law Affects Auto Insurance After a Crash

Under Utah Code § 78B-5-818, if you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your insurer may still raise rates if you’re found partially liable. The closer you are to that 50% threshold, the more likely you’ll see a premium adjustment.

Reporting a Not-at-Fault Accident to Your Insurer

Even if you weren’t at fault, you should always report the accident to your insurance company. Failing to notify them could violate your policy terms and jeopardize coverage, especially if new information later changes how fault is assessed.

Provide complete and accurate documentation, including the police report, witness information, and any photos or videos from the scene. This helps your insurer build a clear picture of what happened and protect you from unfair liability assignments.

It also positions your carrier to defend against possible rate increases or disputes from the other driver’s insurer.

Ways to Prevent or Minimize a Rate Increase

The best way to prevent or minimize a rate increase after a no-fault accident is to be proactive. This means understanding your policy, recognizing the factors that affect your rates, and taking steps to prevent an accident from happening.

Review your policy regularly to ensure you have the necessary coverage, such as accident forgiveness if available. Consider enrolling in programs that reward safe driving. By being informed and strategic, you can better position yourself to avoid or lessen the financial impact of a premium hike, even when an accident isn’t your fault.

An auto insurance rate increase can stem from multiple factors, some beyond your control. Recognizing how insurers evaluate a claim surcharge, and how your claims history and rate hikes relate, helps you stay prepared even when the accident was not your fault.

Safe Driver Discounts and Accident Forgiveness

Enrolling in a defensive driving discount program may help reduce your car insurance premiums after an accident, especially if your provider uses telematics or safe-driving metrics.

Many insurers offer accident forgiveness for the first incident, especially if you’ve maintained a clean driving record. Enrolling in safe driver programs or telematics tracking can help offset any potential increases in insurance costs.

What to Do if Your Rates Go Up After a No-Fault Accident

If your premium increases, contact your insurer and ask for a detailed explanation. You may also file through your insurance company’s appeal process if you believe the increase was unjustified, especially in cases involving a non-chargeable accident.

When to Call a Salt Lake City Car Accident Lawyer

Not every accident demands legal intervention, but some do. Knowing when to contact a Salt Lake City car accident lawyer can make the difference between a fair settlement and walking away with less than you deserve.

• After a Serious Injury: If you or someone else suffered a serious injury—brain trauma, spinal damage, broken bones, or anything requiring long-term treatment—speak with a lawyer immediately. High-dollar medical claims trigger aggressive insurance defense tactics.
• When Fault Is Unclear or Disputed: Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule where, if you’re found more than 50% at fault, you can’t recover damages. Call an attorney before saying anything if there’s any chance the other driver or their insurer might shift blame to you.
• If the Insurance Company Won’t Cooperate: Delayed claims, lowball offers, and requests for recorded statements are common tactics used by insurers to minimize payouts. If the adjuster drags things out or makes an offer that feels off, consider bringing in a legal advocate who knows how to negotiate with insurers for a fair outcome effectively.
• After a Hit-and-Run or Uninsured Driver Crash: If the at-fault driver fled the scene or didn’t have insurance, you’ll likely need to go through your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. A lawyer can ensure the claim is handled correctly and thoroughly.
• If a Commercial Vehicle or Government Entity Is Involved: Accidents with trucks, buses, city vehicles, or public employees involve different legal procedures with shorter deadlines, special notice requirements, and more complex liability rules. If a business or government agency played any role in the crash, legal counsel should be brought in right away.
• When You’re Unsure What to Do Next: If you don’t know what your case is worth, or whether you even have a case, get a free consultation. A car accident lawyer in Salt Lake City can evaluate your situation, explain your options, and help you make an informed decision.

A Salt Lake City car accident lawyer can also help if your car insurance premiums spike unfairly after an accident, especially when the accident was not your fault and you’re dealing with disputed claims.

How Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers Can Help

Disputing fault or navigating a challenging insurance company may require legal assistance. Our attorneys at Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurers to protect your rights—and your wallet.

Free Consultations for Crash Victims

If you were involved in a crash in Utah and are concerned about your insurance rates, call Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers. We offer free consultations and only get paid if we win your case.

Call Valley Law Today and Secure Your Insurance Claim

Don’t let a no-fault accident leave you with unexpected premium hikes or an unfair settlement. Take control of your situation by understanding your rights and the options available to you. Review your insurance policy, look into accident forgiveness programs, and consider proactively seeking guidance from legal professionals if you’re facing resistance from insurers or complex liability disputes.

If you’re in Utah and your insurance rates have increased after a not-at-fault accident, or if you’re struggling with an uncooperative insurance company, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Contact Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers today at (801) 810-9999 for a free consultation.

We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims and fight for the fair outcome you deserve.