How Long Do Accidents Stay on Your Record?
Life leaves us with a trail of records—starting with school report cards, then financial records as we begin working and paying taxes, and eventually our driving records. These include any violations or accidents you may have in Virginia or any other state. Your driving record is directly tied to your car insurance policy, which raises the question: How long do accidents stay on your record?
Insurance Company Policies
Every insurance provider has rules for setting premiums, determining coverage, and assessing the impact of accidents. Generally, accidents remain on your insurance record for three to five years. The exact duration depends on the provider and the nature of the accident.
Many insurance companies rely on guidelines from the Motor Vehicles (DMV) and its point system. Points for traffic violations stay on your driving record for two years. Still, the actual infraction remains visible for five years. For example, if you receive two points for speeding, those points expire after two years. However, the speeding violation will still be listed for another three years.
Accumulating too many points could mean a license suspension. The length of the suspension increases with the number of points accrued. For example, collecting 12 to 13 points will result in a 30-day suspension, while 14 to 15 points will lead to a 45-day suspension. If you reach 16 to 17 points, your license may be suspended for 60 days, and 18 to 19 points result in a 90-day suspension. Drivers with 20 or more points face the most extended suspension period, lasting 120 days.
DUI Consequences
A DUI conviction is one of the most severe traffic violations. DUIs can remain on your insurance record for up to five years and often lead to significant increases in insurance premiums. Some companies may raise rates for drivers with a DUI by as much as 120%.
Virginia Insurance Requirements
Virginia law mandates that all registered vehicles carry liability insurance unless the driver pays the Uninsured Motor Vehicle (UMV) fee. Proof of insurance must be available when law enforcement requests it. Virginia requires at least the following minimum coverage:
- $25,000 for injury or death of one person in a single accident.
- $50,000 for injury or death of two or more people in a single accident.
- $20,000 for property damage.
Drivers who choose to pay the UMV fee must understand that this does not provide insurance coverage but allows them to operate a vehicle while remaining personally responsible for damages in the event of an accident.
How Fault Affects Your Insurance Record
Virginia is an at-fault state, meaning the driver at fault for an accident must pay for the damages through their insurance. However, insurance companies may dispute who is at fault, especially when comparative fault is involved.
Under Virginia’s modified comparative fault doctrine, compensation can still be recovered if you are less than 50% at fault. Fault is assigned as a percentage, which determines the final compensation.
Determining fault isn’t always straightforward. Even if drivers were speeding or ran a red light, they may not admit fault. A police report or citation issued at the scene can play a critical role in supporting your claim.
The Support You Need
Establishing fault and navigating insurance claims can be overwhelming, especially after a severe car accident. That’s where Clinton O. Middleton, Attorney at Law, PLLC, can help. We are here to help clients with insurance claims or personal injury lawsuits to ensure they receive fair compensation.
Contact our car accident lawyer for legal assistance if you’ve been involved in a car accident. Call us today to schedule a free consultation and learn your next steps.
