How Much Does Car Insurance Go Up After an Accident?
Updated May 28, 2026 · 4 min read
One at-fault accident can change your car insurance bill for years. How much it goes up — and for how long — depends on several factors. Here’s what to expect.
The typical increase
After an at-fault accident, drivers commonly see their premium rise by roughly 30% to 50%, though it varies widely by insurer, state, and the severity of the claim. A minor fender-bender affects your rate less than a major crash with injury claims.
How long it lasts
An at-fault accident usually affects your premium for about 3 to 5 years. The surcharge is heaviest right after the accident and gradually fades as it ages off your record, assuming you stay claim-free.
What affects the size of the increase
- Fault — An accident where you’re not at fault usually has little or no effect on your rate.
- Claim size — Larger payouts (especially injury claims) raise rates more than small property-damage claims.
- Your history — A first accident with an otherwise clean record is treated more leniently than repeat claims.
- Accident forgiveness — Some insurers offer this (sometimes as an add-on) so your first at-fault accident doesn’t raise your rate.
Should you file a claim?
For very minor damage, it’s sometimes cheaper to pay out of pocket than to file — if the repair cost is close to your deductible, a claim can cost you more in higher premiums than it pays out. For anything significant or involving injuries or another party, file the claim.
How to bring your rate back down
- Shop around after an accident — insurers weigh accidents differently, so another carrier may offer a much better rate.
- Ask about accident forgiveness for the future.
- Keep your record clean — time is the biggest factor; the surcharge fades.
- Re-check discounts and your deductible.
The bottom line
Expect a roughly 30–50% increase for 3–5 years after an at-fault accident — less for not-at-fault or minor claims. Because insurers price accidents so differently, comparing quotes after one is the fastest way to find a lower rate.