Aug 9, 2024
The impact of single car accidents on your policy
Single car accidents involve only one vehicle and can occur for reasons such as losing control of the car, swerving to avoid an obstacle, or encountering hazardous road conditions. Unlike multi-vehicle collisions, where responsibility is shared, these accidents typically place full responsibility on the driver involved.
According to the National Safety Council, single-vehicle crashes involving collisions with fixed objects, pedestrians, and non-collisions accounted for a greater proportion of fatalities and fatal crashes compared to less serious crashes. These types of crashes made up 54% of deaths and 56% of fatal crashes but only 25% or less of injuries.
In this blog, we explore this type of at-fault accident, how it might happen, and if it will impact your coverage.
Three main takeaways about single car accidents:
- A single-vehicle accident is a type of traffic accident involving only one vehicle.
- The driver typically holds full responsibility, which can impact premiums and coverage choices.
- Solo vehicle accidents can be caused by many things, such as driver error, poor road conditions, and sudden obstacles
What's on this page:
What is a single car accident?Single car accident examples
What are the common causes of a single car accident?
Who is at fault for a single car collision?
Will a single car accident increase my insurance premium?
Am I covered for a single car accident?
What happens if weather is the cause of a single car accident?
What to do after a single vehicle collision
4 tips to avoid single vehicle accidents
Single car accident FAQs
What is a single car accident?
A single car accident is a type of road traffic accident involving only one vehicle. However, they can also include pedestrians, cyclists, or wildlife. These accidents can result from run-off-road collisions, fallen debris, or collisions with deer or other animals.
They may also be due to driver-related factors such as sleep deprivation or brake failure. Unlike multi-vehicle collisions, where responsibility is shared among multiple drivers, single car accidents typically place full responsibility on the driver involved.
Single car accident example
Imagine driving home late at night after a long day at work. It's raining heavily, and visibility is poor. Suddenly, you see a deer dart across the road. Instinctively, you swerve to avoid hitting the animal, but in doing so, your car skids off the road and hits a tree. Fortunately, you're not injured, but your car is significantly damaged. This is an example of a single car accident.
What are the common causes of a single car accident?
Single car accidents can happen due to various factors. Some common causes include:
- Driver error: Distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving (by alcohol or drugs), or fatigue can lead to loss of control and accidents.
- Road conditions: Poor road conditions, such as potholes, ice, or debris, can cause a vehicle to skid or lose traction.
- Weather: Adverse weather conditions, such as driving in the rain, snow and ice road conditions, or fog, can impair visibility and control.
- Vehicle malfunctions: Mechanical failures, like brake or tire blowouts, can lead to accidents.
- Animal encounters: Collisions with animals can cause a driver to swerve and lose control.
- Sudden obstacles: Unexpected obstacles, such as fallen trees or road construction, can force a driver to make sudden maneuvers.
Who is at fault for a single car collision?
Determining fault in a single car collision depends on the circumstances of the crash.
If the driver loses control due to speeding, reckless driving, or negligence, they may be at fault.
However, road conditions, weather, mechanical failures, or unexpected obstacles can also play a role. For example, if a driver loses control due to a sudden, unavoidable vehicle defect, it might be considered an accident rather than the driver’s fault. Insurance companies and law enforcement often investigate to determine fault based on the specific details of the incident.
Will a single car accident increase my insurance premium?
If you're in a single-vehicle accident, you might wonder how it will affect your car insurance rates. In a single-vehicle collision, your rates can be impacted, as the driver (you) is usually found to be at fault. At-fault accidents can have a significant impact on your insurance and remain on your driving record for several years, continuing to affect your premium until the accident is removed from your record.
Am I covered for a single car accident?
It's important to note that coverage for a single car accident is not guaranteed. The specific details of the accident and the types of coverage outlined in your Ontario car insurance will determine whether you are covered.
If your policy includes features like collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, and accident forgiveness, you will likely be covered for the accident.
These coverages can protect you even if you are at fault in a single-vehicle collision. For example, collision can pay for vehicle repairs regardless of fault, whether the accident involved another driver, an animal, or an object. Collision coverage can assist in replacing your car if it's totalled in the accident. If you lease or finance your vehicle, you might already have this coverage, often compulsory in most lease agreements.
Accident forgiveness can be added to your policy to safeguard your record and prevent your premium from escalating after an at-fault accident. If this is your first accident, this coverage might apply.
What happens if I leave the scene of a single car accident?
Leaving the scene of a single car accident can result in serious legal consequences, such as being charged with hit-and-run, a criminal offence in many jurisdictions.
- Legal consequences: You may face legal consequences for leaving the scene of an accident, including fines, license suspension, or jail time, mainly if there was property damage or injuries.
- Insurance issues: Your claim may be denied if you leave the scene, leaving you responsible for repair and medical costs.
- Increased liability: If you leave the scene, you may be held more responsible for any damage or injuries, which could be interpreted as avoiding accountability.
- Legal action: The property owner or other parties may take legal action against you for damages.
It’s best to remain at the scene, exchange information with others involved, and report the accident to the authorities and your insurance provider.
What happens if weather is the cause of a single car accident?
If weather is the main cause of a single car accident, it can affect fault determination and how the situation is handled in several ways. Most policies cover accidents caused by adverse weather conditions, but the specifics vary. If weather is the sole cause of the accident, it is usually considered unavoidable.
However, if you drove too fast for the conditions or failed to exercise reasonable caution, you could still be partially at fault. While weather conditions can influence the outcome, drivers are still expected to drive safely and adjust to road conditions.
What to do after a single vehicle collision
After a single-vehicle accident, it's important to stay calm and take specific steps to ensure your safety and properly handle the situation. Here's what you should do:
- Check for injuries: First, assess yourself for any injuries. If you are injured, avoid moving too much and wait for emergency services.
- Ensure safety: If the car is operable and safe, move it to the side of the road to avoid obstructing traffic. Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers. Use a flashlight or phone light if it's dark.
- Call emergency services: Dial emergency services to report the accident, especially if there are injuries or significant vehicle damage. Provide the dispatcher with your location and details about the accident.
- Document the accident: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle, road conditions, visible damages, and any other relevant details. If you hit an object, such as a tree or guardrail, document the damage to that object as well.
- Exchange information: When another party is involved, exchange insurance information and contact details. If there is property damage, try to find the owner or leave a note with your contact information.
- Report the accident: Depending on the severity, you might need to file a report with local law enforcement. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the car insurance claims process.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine after an accident, it's wise to see a doctor to rule out internal injuries or delayed symptoms.
- Follow up: Keep a record of all documents related to the accident, such as medical bills, repair estimates, and any correspondence with your provider. If the claim or liability issues are complicated, consider consulting a legal professional.
4 tips to avoid single vehicle accidents
Single-vehicle accidents contribute to a significant portion of road fatalities and injuries. While unpredictable, drivers can take proactive measures to minimize their risk. Here are four crucial tips to help you avoid single-vehicle accidents:
- Maintain vehicle safety: Regularly inspect and maintain your vehicle to ensure it is in optimal condition. This includes checking tire pressure, fluid levels, brakes, lights, and other essential components. Neglecting vehicle maintenance can lead to mechanical failures or reduced performance, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
- Practice safe driving: Anticipate potential hazards and adjust your driving accordingly. Avoid distractions such as cell phone use, texting, or eating while driving. Maintain a safe following distance, be aware of your surroundings, and react promptly to changing road conditions. Defensive driving techniques help you identify and mitigate risks before they escalate into accidents.
- Avoid impairment: When driving, never drink alcohol or take drugs as they impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time. Even small amounts affect your ability to drive safely. Designate a sober driver or use public transportation if you plan to drink. Avoid driving when fatigued or under the influence of medications.
- Drive according to conditions: Adapt your driving to match the road conditions. In wet weather, reduce speed, increase following distance, and use headlights. In snowy or icy conditions, use winter tires, slow down, and avoid sudden maneuvers to minimize the risk of losing control.
Will your policy cover you for a single car accident?
You don't always know what's around the corner, but you can be prepared with up-to-date car insurance. Compare your options today with our brokers.
Single car accident FAQs
To benefit from coverage, you must report a single car collision to your insurance company. Most policies require reporting accidents within a specific time frame, regardless of fault. Local authorities may also need to be informed about significant damages or injuries. Failing to report could lead to penalties or increased premiums.
A single car collision, like many accidents, can stay on your record for up to six years.
Single car collisions can impact your coverage needs
Single car accidents can be stressful and costly. Understanding their impact on your insurance and taking the proper steps can make the situation more manageable. Ensure safety, document the scene, and promptly report the accident to your insurer to confidently navigate the aftermath.
