Can I change car insurance during a claim?
Asked by: Claire Ledner | Last update: January 27, 2026Score: 4.1/5 (57 votes)
What happens if I change insurance during a claim?
Changing car insurance companies does not affect the legitimacy or processing of your ongoing claim. However, there are a few points to keep in mind: Documentation and Communication: Ensure you keep all documentation related to your claim and maintain open communication with your old insurer.
Can you cancel your insurance during a claim?
Except for adding coverage for a vehicle currently in the claims process, the way to buy car insurance with an open claim isn't much different than purchasing, switching, or changing car insurance without a claim. You can still shop around and cancel your coverage.
Can I switch car insurance companies in the middle of a claim?
You can certainly switch car insurance companies if you have an open claim with your current insurer. However, doing so may result in a higher premium once the claim is settled. If you must make a switch with a pending at-fault claim, be sure to inform your new car insurer so there are no surprises come renewal time.
Is it a good idea to switch insurance companies after a claim?
It's fine but just be aware that the rate you're getting elsewhere could go up after a few months. The claim might not show up when they write the new policy so just be sure to tell them that you have an open claim.
Can You Switch Auto Insurance Companies After An Accident While Your Claim Is Pending?
Will my insurance increase after a claim?
How much does car insurance increase after a claim? Although the amount will depend on who's to blame, the severity of the accident, and your own driving record, you should expect your car insurance to increase by about 20-50% after making a claim.
Can I get insurance with an open claim?
Unfortunately, most companies will not give a quote if you currently have an open claim for the type of insurance that you are shopping for. The reason is that the companies need to assess the total payout and to verify that all repairs have been properly repaired.
What happens if you switch car insurance mid policy?
The carrier refunds the unused part of the premium, although some companies may charge a small fee or penalty. Even if you've already decided to switch, you may want to calculate whether it makes more financial sense to wait until a policy term ends before making the change.
Can I sell my car in the middle of an insurance claim?
If you own your vehicle outright – with no loan payments pending – your car is yours to sell at any time, and the fact that you have an auto insurance claim pending has no bearing on this fact. This said, however, selling your car before your car insurance claim is finalized can seriously complicate the claims process.
Will my car insurance go up if I cancel a claim?
Your car insurance rates can increase even if you cancel your claim. Because when you file a claim, your insurer records the incident. This record can impact your risk profile. As you know insurance companies determine your car insurance rates based on the risk factors.
When should I cancel my car insurance after an accident?
If you plan to be without a vehicle for 6 months or longer, it might make sense to cancel your policy. Remember that if you choose to cancel your policy, you won't be paying insurance premiums but will also be faced with higher rates when you need to be insured again.
Do I have to tell new insurance about an accident?
When you get a car insurance quote, you are typically asked to disclose any recent accidents or traffic violations you previously had. A pending or open claim with your current insurer could jeopardize your ability to get coverage with a new company until that claim is resolved.
What happens if you cancel insurance during a claim?
The answer is that canceling your policy will not affect an open claim so long as you cancel the policy after the accident occurs. But just because it is possible, is it advisable to cancel your policy? Remember, you are required by law to maintain an active auto insurance policy if you own a vehicle.
How soon after an accident can you change insurance?
You can switch auto insurance companies after an accident while your claim is still pending. It is important to consider your reasons for switching, ensure there is no gap in coverage, and be aware of the potential impact on your claim.
Is Progressive or Geico better?
When it comes to the provider rankings from the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study, both carriers scored below the industry average — but Geico takes the lead with a score of 692 compared to Progressive's score of 672.
Can you switch car insurance after an accident?
If you are unhappy with your auto insurance provider, switching car insurance after an accident may be an option for you. You can discontinue your policy even if you have a current open claim or were at fault in an accident. In fact, you can seek a new insurance company anytime you are unhappy with your current policy.
Can I change my insurance in the middle?
In most cases, you can only sign up for or update your health insurance during the annual Open Enrollment Period. However, if you experience certain qualifying life events, you may also become eligible for a Special Enrollment Period.
Do I get a refund if I switch car insurance?
Switching insurance companies
If you switch car insurance companies and find better rates with a different insurer, you may want to cancel your existing policy before it expires. In this case, if you switch insurance companies you can get a refund. Depending on your insurer, you may have to pay a cancellation fee.
Can I change insurance in the middle of a claim?
Can you change your auto insurance after an accident? You can switch car insurance companies while you have an open claim, but you can't change your auto insurance after an accident to make up for an uncovered loss. You can adjust your coverage at any time, but any changes you make won't be retroactive.
What is the downside of filing an insurance claim?
It could increase your premiums
When determining your premiums, insurance companies consider your likelihood of filing a future claim — which could cost them money. The higher your perceived risk, the more likely you are to pay more in premiums. Your claims history tends to play a direct role.
Will my insurance go up if I open a claim?
Filing an insurance claim can have long-term ramifications, such as a hike in your premium or difficulty in switching providers in the future. Certain types of claims, such as dog bites or slip-and-fall incidents, can have a significant impact on your rates and may even disqualify you from coverage with some carriers.
How long does it take for insurance to go down after a claim?
Male and female drivers see the largest drop in car insurance between ages 18 and 19. Car insurance rates drop three to five years after a violation hits your claims record. Switching insurers is usually the fastest way to make your insurance rates go down.
Is it worth claiming on the insurance?
If the repair cost is lower than your insurance policy's deductible, it's probably not worth filing a claim. For instance, say your deductible is $1,000, but the cost of damage is $800. In that case, filing a claim wouldn't make much sense as your out-of-pocket cost is higher than the amount your insurer will cover.
Will my insurance go up with a 50/50 claim?
In some car crashes, both drivers may share equal responsibility, resulting in 50 50 fault. In these cases, each driver's insurance typically covers their own damages. This could potentially lead to premium increases for both parties.