How Driving Records Work in Ohio
The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, or BMV, keeps records for each licensed driver in the state. There are several types of BMV records, including the following:
- Unofficial copy of your driving record: This record is only available to view online and details your moving violation convictions, accident involvement reports, license suspensions, and license revocations within the last two years.
- Driving record abstract: This type of driving record contains the same components as the unofficial driving record but covers the latest three years.
- Driving record history: This record contains the same information as the driving abstract, except it displays your full driver history.
- Driver’s license history: This record details the dates of all driver’s licenses or state identification cards you’ve received, including current and past licenses.
Ohio uses a system that assigns points for various traffic violations and adds them to your record. While involvement in an accident itself is not a violation for which points are assessed, you might be assessed points if you committed a violation that caused or contributed to the accident. If you are assessed twelve or more points on your record within the last two years, you’ll receive a six-month license suspension. You may ask the state to reinstate your license after six months if you’ve satisfied other requirements, including completing a remedial driving course and retaking the driver’s license exam.
Can My Car Accident Be Removed From My Driving Record?
No, you cannot remove a car accident from your driving record in Ohio. However, you may be eligible to receive a two-point credit if you complete an approved eight-hour remedial driver course. This option is only available to drivers with 2 to 11 points on their records.
The two-point credit doesn’t remove points from your record. Instead, it acts as a buffer if you receive more points in the future. You will have your driver’s license suspended at 14 points instead of 12 for three years after completing the remedial course.
The Impact of Accidents on Insurance Records
Auto insurance companies can access your driving record, meaning they will learn of any accidents or moving violations. Thus, the events on your driving record can affect your insurance premiums. Your insurance company may see you as a high-risk driver if you have a history of accidents or traffic violations. It will likely charge you higher premiums than a driver with a clean record.
Insurance companies use a points system to determine your rate. This system is usually different from the BMV’s points system. The point value is higher for more severe accidents. For example, a head-on collision may cost you more points than a minor fender bender.
How Long Do Car Accidents Stay on Your Insurance?
Each insurance company has a different standard for the length of time that accidents stay on your driving record. In Ohio, car accidents usually stay on your insurance record for three years. Some insurers keep accidents on insurance records for up to five years. The amount of time may vary based on the type of accident and your insurance company’s policies.
How Does Accident Forgiveness Work?
Many auto insurance companies offer accident forgiveness policies. These prevent your insurance rates from increasing after your first accident, even if you’re at fault.
Some insurance companies offer accident forgiveness at no extra cost, while others require you to pay for it as an add-on to your policy. If you have accident forgiveness, you may use it only once within a specific time frame.
Contact Gervelis Law Firm Today
If you have been injured in a car accident in Ohio, you may have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault party. Gervelis Law Firm is here to guide you through your legal options. We’re experienced negotiators who take an aggressive approach when dealing with insurance companies.
Allow our personal injury lawyers to handle the legal details while you focus on your recovery. Call 866-792-2728 or complete our online contact form today for a free consultation.
