Getting into an at-fault accident is stressful enough — but the financial aftermath can linger for years. Understanding exactly how accidents affect your insurance helps you make smarter decisions both before and after a crash.
How Much Will Your Rates Go Up?
After an at-fault accident, the average driver sees their premium increase by 41%. However, this varies significantly by insurer and accident severity.
| Accident Type | Avg. Rate Increase | Duration on Record |
|---|---|---|
| Minor at-fault (under $2K damage) | +22% | 3 years |
| Major at-fault accident | +41% | 3–5 years |
| At-fault with injury | +53% | 5 years |
| DUI-related accident | +84% | 5–10 years |
Accident Forgiveness Programs
Many insurers now offer accident forgiveness programs that waive the rate increase for your first at-fault accident. Allstate, Liberty Mutual, and GEICO all offer versions of this benefit — sometimes free for long-term customers, sometimes as a paid add-on.
Should You File a Claim for Minor Accidents?
Not always. If the repair cost is close to your deductible, it may be cheaper to pay out of pocket and avoid the claim. For example, if repairs cost $800 and your deductible is $500, filing a claim saves you only $300 but may raise your annual premium by $400 or more.
Once an accident falls off your record — typically after 3 years — immediately shop for new quotes. Switching to an insurer that does not see the old accident in your history can save you hundreds per year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an accident stay on your insurance record?
Most at-fault accidents stay on your insurance record for 3–5 years. DUIs and accidents with serious injuries may remain for up to 10 years depending on your state.
Will my insurance drop me after an accident?
Insurers can non-renew your policy after a serious accident or multiple claims, but they cannot cancel mid-policy except for specific reasons like non-payment or fraud. If dropped, high-risk insurers and state-assigned risk pools can provide coverage.