Cheap Auto Insurance After an Accident in 2024
After an accident, you’ll want to know how to find cheap auto insurance, which includes asking about discounts and accident forgiveness.
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Daniel Walker
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
Daniel Walker graduated with a BS in Administrative Management in 2005 and has run his family’s insurance agency, FCI Agency, for over 15 years (BBB A+). He is licensed as an insurance agent to write property and casualty insurance, including home, life, auto, umbrella, and dwelling fire insurance. He’s also been featured on sites like Reviews.com and Safeco. To ensure our content is accura...
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Jul 17, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Jul 17, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- An auto accident can raise your rates by around $80 a month
- Each auto insurance company charges different rates after an accident
- Add discounts and take advantage of accident forgiveness to keep rates low
If you spend enough time on the road, you’ll likely be in an accident at some point. While your driving record and claims history affect your rates, you can still find cheap auto insurance after an accident.
One way to save money on insurance after an accident is to look for coverage with accident forgiveness. Although it may not be worth it for every driver, knowing your first at-fault accident won’t affect your rates offers peace of mind.
Even if your auto insurance rates increase after an accident, it doesn’t last forever. Typically, accidents raise your car insurance for three to five years. Then, rates return to normal.
Keep reading to learn ways to find cheap auto insurance after an accident and keep your rates as low as possible.
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Can you find cheap auto insurance after an accident?
Many factors affect your auto insurance rates, such as age, vehicle, and ZIP code. However, one of the most significant factors is your driving record. Drivers with accidents, tickets, and DUIs pay much higher insurance rates than drivers with a clean record. This means that the best accident insurance companies will vary depending on each individual driver.
Let’s take a look at the impact different traffic violations can have on your auto insurance rates.
Whether you’re at fault in an accident also affects your rates. For example, your rates might not increase if someone else caused your accident. However, if the other driver was uninsured and you don’t have uninsured motorist coverage, you’ll have to file a claim on your own policy.
Some states require drivers to pay for their own damages regardless of fault. Therefore, if you live in a no-fault state, your auto insurance rates may increase since you must file a claim on your insurance.
The number of accidents on your driving record also affects your rates. For example, your rates should stay low if you’ve only had one minor fender bender in the last few years. However, your rates will significantly increase if you’ve caused multiple accidents.
Fortunately, accidents only affect your insurance rates for a short period. Typically, most states only allow your rates to increase for three to five years after an accident. So, your rates won’t be high forever, even if you have an accident on your record.
Remember, there are things you can do to keep your rates as low as possible. Keep reading to learn ways to get the cheapest auto insurance rates available.
What are the best auto insurance companies after an accident?
Fortunately, some insurers still offer cheap coverage if you have accidents on your driving record.
As mentioned above, the best auto insurance companies after an accident vary by driver. Each company looks at your accident history differently and offers different rates. So while one company may raise your rates for one accident, another company may choose to ignore your fender bender.
This table shows how one accident affects your auto insurance rates from top companies.
Full Coverage Auto Insurance Average Rates by Company and Driving Record
| Insurance Company | Monthly Rates with a DUI | Monthly Rates with an Accident | Monthly Rates with a Ticket | Monthly Rates with a Clean Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allstate | $270 | $225 | $188 | $160 |
| American Family | $194 | $176 | $136 | $116 |
| Farmers | $193 | $198 | $173 | $139 |
| Geico | $216 | $133 | $106 | $80 |
| Liberty Mutual | $313 | $234 | $212 | $174 |
| Nationwide | $237 | $161 | $137 | $115 |
| Progressive | $140 | $186 | $140 | $105 |
| State Farm | $112 | $102 | $96 | $86 |
| Travelers | $206 | $139 | $134 | $99 |
| USAA | $108 | $78 | $67 | $59 |
| U.S. Average | $146 | $173 | $147 | $119 |
One accident can raise your rates by around $80 a month. So, while adding accident forgiveness to your policy costs a little extra, it’s typically much cheaper than paying higher rates for years.
What is accident forgiveness?
If you’re likely to be in an accident, look for accident forgiveness. Although specifics vary by insurer, accident forgiveness ensures your rates don’t go up after an accident.
Remember that accident forgiveness only applies to collision coverage, not comprehensive. So, if you hit another car, accident forgiveness kicks in. However, if someone steals your vehicle, coverage doesn’t apply, and rates may increase.
There’s typically an additional charge of up to 10% to add accident forgiveness to your policy. Still, you may be able to keep your safe driver discount after an accident.
The cost and length of time you must be accident-free to add the feature varies by company.
In addition, high-risk drivers won’t qualify. So if you have multiple accidents, tickets, or DUIs, most insurance companies won’t allow you to add accident forgiveness. Young or inexperienced drivers also may not be covered.
Some states like California don’t allow auto insurance companies to offer accident forgiveness.
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Is accident forgiveness worth it?
Unfortunately, there’s no definite answer. Accident forgiveness is worth it for drivers who think they may be in an accident. However, you may be paying for a benefit you never need.
Some insurers offer free accident forgiveness to drivers with a clean driving record. However, most insurance companies charge for the added coverage. Each insurance company also sets requirements for drivers to qualify for accident forgiveness and its cost.
For example, Geico offers accident forgiveness for free once you’ve been with the company for three years and remain accident-free. However, Travelers charges for the coverage, and you must be accident-free for five years.
It’s really up to you and your budget. While accident forgiveness is an extra expense, it’s typically cheaper than paying higher insurance rates for three years.
However, you may want to skip accident forgiveness if you’ve rarely been in an accident and no one on your policy is likely to cause an accident.
What are tips for getting cheap auto insurance after an accident?
First, avoid any dings to your driving record, though accidents come off your driving record after a few years. So even if you have an accident, you’ll only see higher insurance rates for a limited time unless you have more accidents.
Next, take a defensive driving course. Not only will a defensive driving course make you a safer driver, but it also earns you a discount on your auto insurance. Some states also remove points from your driver’s license after attending class.
You should also ask about auto insurance discounts. Even if you don’t qualify for a safe driver discount after an accident, you may be eligible for other savings, including good student, multi-car, and other discounts.
Then, take a close look at your policy. Can you reduce coverage or raise your deductibles? Consider removing extra coverages like roadside assistance or opt for a higher deductible. While this means more out-of-pocket costs, your overall rates are lower.
Finally, shop around for the cheapest coverage. Every company evaluates your personal factors differently. So while one company may charge higher rates after an accident, another won’t.
You may even be able to find a cheaper insurance company offering accident forgiveness.
Cheap Auto Insurance After an Accident: The Bottom Line
While your auto insurance rates will likely increase after an accident, there are ways to lower your rates.
Consider adding accident forgiveness to your policy. While adding the feature costs less than 10% of your rate, your rates won’t go up after an accident. However, it isn’t available in all states, and some drivers won’t qualify.
Add discounts and shop around to get the cheapest car insurance after an accident. Each auto insurance company weighs your personal factors differently and offers different rates. Compare multiple companies to find the lowest rates for you after an accident.
The good news is that your rates will eventually go down. Accidents typically only raise your rates for three to five years. Then, provided you don’t have any other accidents, your rates should return to normal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is accident forgiveness?
Accident forgiveness is a feature offered by some auto insurance companies that allow your rates to stay the same after an accident. Although you do have to pay for the benefit, it’s typically cheaper than higher insurance rates for years.
How do you get accident forgiveness?
Every insurance company has different requirements. However, drivers usually must be accident-free for at least three years to qualify. While some insurance companies offer the feature to safe drivers, others can pay to add it to their policy.
Who needs accident forgiveness?
Accident forgiveness might be worth it if you have a high-risk driver on your policy, such as young drivers or drivers who have been in accidents in the past.
However, it may not be worth the added cost if you’re the only driver on your policy and have a safe driving record.
Can you get accident forgiveness after you’ve been in an accident?
You can’t have an accident and then accident forgiveness to your policy to get you out of higher rates. The feature doesn’t cover accidents you’ve had before adding the benefit. However, you can add it in the future.
How long do you have to wait for accident forgiveness?
Every company has different requirements for accident forgiveness. Typically, you must be accident-free for three to five years to qualify.
Will my insurance policy be canceled if I have an accident?
Generally, an insurance company will not cancel your policy solely based on one accident. However, if you have a history of multiple accidents or engage in risky driving behavior, the insurance company may choose not to renew your policy once it expires. It is essential to maintain a good driving record to avoid policy cancellations.
Can I still get insurance if I have a history of DUI or DWI convictions?
While it may be more challenging to obtain insurance with a history of DUI or DWI convictions, it is still possible. Some insurance companies specialize in providing coverage for high-risk drivers, including those with DUI or DWI convictions. However, expect higher premiums and potentially stricter policy terms.
How can I reduce my auto insurance rates after an accident?
Several steps can help reduce your auto insurance rates after an accident:
- Take a defensive driving course to demonstrate your commitment to safe driving.
- Maintain a clean driving record going forward to show improved risk.
- Consider increasing your deductibles, which can lower your premiums.
- Shop around and compare quotes from different insurance companies to find the best rate available.
Should I report every accident to my insurance company, even if it was minor?
It is generally recommended to report every accident to your insurance company, even if it was minor. Failure to report an accident, regardless of its severity, can lead to complications later on, especially if the other party involved decides to file a claim. Your insurance company can provide guidance and support during the claims process.
Can I switch insurance companies if my rates increase after an accident?
Yes, you can switch insurance companies if your rates increase after an accident. It’s always a good idea to shop around for insurance policies, especially after a significant life event like an accident. Keep in mind that some insurance companies may still consider your accident history and adjust your rates accordingly.
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Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Daniel Walker
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
Daniel Walker graduated with a BS in Administrative Management in 2005 and has run his family’s insurance agency, FCI Agency, for over 15 years (BBB A+). He is licensed as an insurance agent to write property and casualty insurance, including home, life, auto, umbrella, and dwelling fire insurance. He’s also been featured on sites like Reviews.com and Safeco. To ensure our content is accura...
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
