Expert: Doctor Settlement - 6/25/2007

Question
Hello, The 2nd day after purchasing a 2007 honda civic I backed it into a brick wall.  This damage was reported to our insurance company and the damage was fixed.  Two weeks after this my wife pulled out into oncoming traffic and was hit on the drivers side. Her car was a total loss.  The insurance company paid out over $18,000 for our vehicle alone.  She hit a 2000 ford focus. We don't know the damage to that vehicle.  Although, it was towed from the scene.  We were paying over $860.00 every 6 months in auto insurance for full coverage on  my truck and her car.  Until these accidents we have never had a wreck or a ticket.  We are 28 years old. How much should we expect our insurance to go up?  Geico said they can't tell us anything until it is time to renew our insurance.  Thanks!!

Answer
Hi Joseph,

Sorry to hear of your bad luck run with the vehicle damages.  Just give thanks that these accidents did not leave either of you injured.

As for your question, no one would be able to make a guess at that inasmuch as your credit score and location and driving use all will figure in.  

There are two things you CAN do in preparation for the renewal increase.  First, contact your state insurance commissioner http://www.settlementcentral.com/links.php and find out what regulations she has established relative to rate increased for at-fault accidents.

Second, go to a local insurance agent and make sure that you can comparison shop without giving notice to Greco.  Be sure to be honest regarding your accidents.  That way you can have some alternatives in the time you need to decide whether or not to renew.

Best wishes,

Dr. Settlement, J.D. (Juris Doctor)
www.SettlementCentral.Com