Do not at fault claims impact insurance premiums?

We've created this guide to help you understand how your insurance policy may be affected by a not at fault accident. Always check your insurer's Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for the most accurate information about your policy.

If you've been in a not at fault car accident, call Sheen first. We can get you back on the road in no time and can work with you and your insurer to ensure the at fault party covers the costs. 

‍

Does a not at fault accident affect insurance?

In most cases, a not-at-fault accident does not impact your insurance premium, excess, or overall policy. If the at-fault driver is insured and they accept liability, their insurer should cover the repair costs, meaning your insurer won’t need to get involved.

However, this isn’t always guaranteed. The specifics of your insurance policy and the accident circumstances all come into play. For instance:

• If you're clearly not at fault and the other driver is insured, your policy generally won't be impacted.
• Common scenarios like being rear-ended typically won’t affect your premiums.

That said, if your insurer does become involved in the process, there’s a possibility they may take the claim into account when reviewing your policy renewal.

Sheen Panel Service partners with Crash and Bash specialist lawyers to help the at fault party and their insurers comply, regardless of your insurance provider. Plus, with Sheen, you're entitled to an accident replacement vehicle if you're not at fault, ensuring you stay on the road through it all.

‍

When does a not at fault accident affect your insurance?

There are instances where your insurance may still be affected, even if you weren’t at fault. You may have to make a claim on your policy if:

• The at-fault driver is uninsured or can't be identified (e.g. a hit and run)
• Your insurer believes you were partially at fault
• The damage was caused by weather events like hail or floods
• Your vehicle was stolen, vandalised, or broken into
  

In these cases, your own insurance policy may be triggered, and your premium may increase as a result.

For example, if your car is damaged in a hit-and-run and the other driver can't be identified, you'll need to claim through your own insurance. Your insurer might consider the conditions of how and where you store your car and adjust your premium accordingly.  

To avoid confusion, check with your insurer whether a not at fault claim will affect your premium. Some providers may still factor the incident into your risk profile.

Not at fault in an accident? Call Sheen first.

[sheen_usps][/sheen_usps]

Not at fault claim premiums: what to know

Wondering whether not at fault claims affect premiums in Melbourne? The answer varies by insurer, but some may still increase premiums even if you weren’t at fault.

This is especially true if you make frequent claims or live in an area with high accident rates. If your insurer deems you a higher risk, they may charge a higher premium on renewal.

If you’re wondering how much premium increases after a claim, there’s no fixed answer. According to the Insurance Council of Australia, premiums can rise anywhere between 10% to 30% depending on the insurer, claim type, and policy history.

‍

What about my no claims bonus?

A not at fault claim may or may not affect your no claims bonus (NCB). Some insurers will protect your bonus as long as you’re not responsible for the accident, but others might reduce or remove it regardless.

To find out how your no claims bonus will be handled, review your PDS or ask your insurer directly. It’s not uncommon for drivers to assume their NCB is protected only to find out it was impacted by a single claim.

Depending on your policy, it might be more cost-effective to pay for minor repairs yourself rather than making a claim that could affect your future discounts.

‍

What you can do

Every insurance company uses its own methods to calculate premiums, so your experience may vary. Still, there are steps you can take to ensure a fair premium:

• Ask your insurer whether not at fault claims affect your premium
• Collect evidence at the scene to clearly show fault (e.g. photos, dashcam footage)
• File a police report for hit-and-runs or criminal damage
• Consider changing providers if your insurer penalises not at fault claims unfairly

If you disagree with a premium increase, you can lodge a dispute with your insurer. If the outcome isn't in your favour, it may be time to explore other options. Sheen recommends comparing quotes and policy terms to ensure you’re getting fair treatment.

FAQs about not at fault claims and insurance premiums

Does claiming a windshield repair affect your premium?

It depends on your policy. Some insurers treat windshield claims separately and offer one free glass repair per year, while others treat it as a standard claim. Check your PDS or speak to your insurer.

Can I choose my own repairer after a not at fault accident?

Yes, in most cases you have the right to choose your own repairer, especially if you're not at fault. This ensures your car is repaired to your standards and not just directed to the insurer’s preferred provider. At Sheen, we work with all major insurers and support your right to choose a trusted panel beater.

What happens if the at fault driver disputes liability?

If the at fault driver denies responsibility, it could delay the claims process. Your insurer or legal representatives may need to gather evidence to prove your case. Sheen can support you with documentation and partner with legal experts to help pursue the claim.

Is it still worth claiming if the damage is minor and I'm not at fault?

It depends on your financial situation and your policy. If the repair cost is close to or below your excess, it might be better to cover it privately to avoid potential complications. However, for peace of mind and proper documentation, many still prefer to make a formal claim.

What should I do immediately after a not at fault accident?

First, make sure everyone is safe and call emergency services if needed. Then, collect as much evidence as possible: photographs of damage, dashcam footage, witness contacts, and the other driver’s details. Reporting the incident to police and your insurer promptly is also crucial.

‍

Call Sheen for the best smash repairs

Your local Sheen panel beating workshop is here to restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition. We support you every step of the way, from managing car insurance claims to providing a replacement vehicle.

As one of Melbourne’s most trusted repairers, Sheen works with all major insurers and helps clients navigate tricky claims—especially when you’re not at fault.

Get in touch today and let Sheen take the stress out of your post-accident experience.