Question
Had an 18 yr old girl hit my car. She came off a side street and hit my rear quarter panel. My question is, will this accident report affect my being hiring by a different carrier? It was not my fault and I believe she was issued a ticket. Also if I was an O/O, would it change my insurance.
Answer
Get a copy of the police report and keep it handy for the next 3 years. Most insurance companies will want to see proof the accident was not your fault to keep from applying a surcharge to your premium.
This applies to car and truck insurance.
Answer
Thanks Connnie, I figured it would be something close to that. I have already made a copy of the report to keep in my files.
Answer
Dear Connie:
I would like to have our readers aware of recent DOT regs. that require reporting of accidents of any person holding CDL and having accidents in their private vehicles. As of January 01, 2003 if the accident is adjudged as their fault, then even though the crash happened in a private vehicle, it now goes on their CDL record as well. Make sure that your accident is properly investigated because there is now a double jeopardy for CDL operators.
Thnx.
Answer
Bobby,
Thanks for the tip. Many states currently report all violations and accidents on the MVR regardless of type of vehicle. Many states will denote incidents involving a commercial motor vehicle with "CMV". However, some do not.
Driving records are being so scrutinized these days by motor carriers and insurance alike.
An example, a tinted driver's window got my client a citation in North Dakota which read "obstructed vision or control". Citation cost $20 and officer told the driver it was an equipment violation.
That violation cost him $731 in additional premium on his insurance, because the MVR shows it as a moving violation with 2 points.
He is appealing this to a judge in North Dakota as we speak, but only time will tell.
It is imperative (and I can stress enough) to monitor the MVR, participate in a legal service and investigative service to protect your rights.
This is serious stuff folks and nothing to be taken lightly.
Be pro-active, not reactive when it comes to your future.