Question #1: What is the average rate increase percentage after an at-fault accident?

This can be a difficult question with a complex answer but here are the bare basics. Each insurance company will likely vary on if or how much they raise rates after an accident. Before making a decision to raise rates the insurance company will look at your driving record. If this is your first accident many insurance companies may decide you are not any more of a risk than before the accident and not raise your rates.

Typically, the insurer will use a rating algorithm to put an insurance point value on the infraction. Based on that value the insurance rate may be raised. Many insurance companies follow the Insurance Services Office (ISO) manual. The ISO is a statistical and actuarial reporting group for the insurance industries. The manual they publish is used by many insurers and agents.

Insurance companies also file their rates with each state's insurance department and included in that is how they determine rates after a claim is made. If you want to find out more information you might contact your state's department of insurance to find out rates filed.

Question #2: If you are using a cell phone on company business and are in an at-fault accident will your company be liable and if so to what extent?

It is unlikely that your company would be found to be liable since you were the one choosing to drive an automobile and drive at the same time. Even with urgent business to conduct over the phone you need to concentrate on driving. If you are that involved in the phone call to loose focus on the roadway you should choose to pull over until the phone call is terminated. Normally the only way your company could be found liable is if you were in a company vehicle at the time.