How Much Will Your Insurance Go Up with an At-Fault Accident? Progressive Answers

Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not intend to substitute financial, educational, health, nutritional, medical, legal, etc advice provided by a professional.

How Much Will Your Insurance Go Up with an At-Fault Accident?

Getting into a car accident can be a stressful and costly experience. Not only do you have to worry about the damage to your vehicle and any injuries sustained, but you also have to consider how the accident will affect your car insurance rates. Progressive, one of the leading car insurance companies, has provided some valuable insights into how much your insurance premium may increase after an at-fault accident.

Key Takeaways

Before we delve into the details, here are some key takeaways:

  • On average, car insurance rates can increase by 47% after an at-fault accident.
  • The actual increase will vary depending on several factors, including your previous driving record, the severity of the accident, and your insurance provider.
  • Switching to a cheaper insurer may help you save money after an accident.

How an Accident Affects Your Car Insurance Rates

When you're involved in an at-fault accident, your car insurance rates are likely to increase. The exact amount of the increase will depend on various factors, such as your driving history, the severity of the accident, and your insurance company's policies.

Progressive advises that, on average, car insurance rates can go up by 47% after an at-fault accident. This means that if you were paying $1,000 per year for car insurance before the accident, your new premium could be around $1,470.

Cheap Car Insurance After an Accident by Company

If you're looking for cheap car insurance after an accident, it's important to compare rates from different insurance companies. While Progressive provides a rough estimate of the average increase in premiums, the actual rates can vary significantly between insurers.

According to NerdWallet, some of the cheapest car insurance companies after an accident include Geico, State Farm, and USAA. These companies often offer competitive rates and accident forgiveness programs that can help mitigate the impact of an at-fault accident on your insurance rates.

Cheap Car Insurance After an Accident by State

In addition to the insurance company you choose, the state you reside in can also affect the cost of car insurance after an accident. Insurance regulations and market conditions can vary from state to state, leading to differences in premium rates.

Bankrate suggests that the cheapest states for car insurance after an accident include Vermont, Maine, and Ohio. On the other hand, states like California, Michigan, and Florida tend to have higher rates following an at-fault accident.

It's Possible to Get a Lower Rate After an Accident

While an at-fault accident can lead to an increase in car insurance rates, there are steps you can take to potentially lower your premiums. Here are some strategies recommended by Progressive:

  • Take a defensive driving course: Completing a defensive driving course can demonstrate your commitment to safe driving and potentially lead to a discount on your insurance.
  • Opt for a higher deductible: Increasing your deductible can lower your monthly premium, although it means you'll have to pay more out of pocket in the event of an accident.
  • Bundle your policies: If you have multiple insurance policies, such as home and auto insurance, bundling them with the same company can often lead to discounts.

How to Find Cheap Car Insurance After an Accident

If you're in the market for cheap car insurance after an accident, it's essential to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance providers. Here are some steps to help you find the best deal:

  1. Gather quotes: Start by requesting quotes from different insurers. Provide accurate information about your driving history and the accident to get the most accurate rates.
  2. Consider coverage options: While price is important, don't forget to evaluate the coverage options offered by each insurer. Ensure you have adequate protection for your needs.
  3. Review customer reviews: Look for feedback from current and past customers to get an idea of the insurer's customer service and claims handling.

Do Insurance Rates Go Up After a No-Fault Accident?

While at-fault accidents are more likely to result in an increase in insurance rates, it's important to note that even no-fault accidents can lead to higher premiums. Insurance companies consider various factors when determining rates, including the number of accidents you've been involved in, regardless of fault.

However, in some states with no-fault insurance laws, your rates may not increase after a no-fault accident. It's essential to understand your state's specific regulations to determine how your rates may be affected.

Can You Keep Your Car Insurance Rate from Going Up After a Crash?

Preventing an increase in your car insurance rates after an accident can be challenging, especially if you were at fault. However, some insurance companies offer accident forgiveness programs that may help you avoid a rate increase.

According to Bankrate, car insurance companies that offer accident forgiveness include Allstate, Liberty Mutual, and Nationwide. These programs typically allow policyholders to have one at-fault accident without experiencing a premium increase.

Conclusion

Being involved in an at-fault accident can have financial implications, including an increase in car insurance rates. Progressive, along with other reputable sources, provides valuable insights into how much your insurance premium may go up after an accident. While the actual increase will depend on several factors, such as your driving history and the severity of the accident, there are ways to potentially lower your premiums. By comparing quotes, considering coverage options, and taking advantage of discounts, you can find cheap car insurance even after an accident.

Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not intend to substitute financial, educational, health, nutritional, medical, legal, etc advice provided by a professional.