Insurance went up after non-fault accident

I have fully comprehensive insurance for my motorcycle. I was unfortunately involved in an accident earlier this year when a delivery van swerved into my lane. Although I was luckily not injured, my  and gear were damaged. The van driver admitted blame and his insurer repaired my bike and paid towards new leathers and a helmet.

I told my insurer about the incident at renewal last week and they have quoted a lot more for the premium than the previous year due to the accident, even though it was not my fault. How can this be?

Andrew Jenkins, by e-mail

Answer

I am sorry to say that increased premiums are often quoted after a non-fault accident. This is because it is a statistical fact that someone who has had one accident is more likely to have a second one, even if they were not at fault in the first.  As such, because you were involved in the accident your insurer is statistically more likely to have to pay out on your policy in the future.

Insurers use different risk assessment models and some insurers will not penalise a non-fault accident victim as a point of policy. It is a good idea when looking around for bike insurance to compare quotes from as many insurers as you can to make sure that you are getting the best deal which should help you reduce the increase as a result of this accident.