Does insurance increase after a no-fault accident?

Asked by: Stephon Bechtelar III  |  Last update: June 8, 2025
Score: 4.7/5 (64 votes)

Yes, insurance rates may go up even if the accident is not your fault, depending on the circumstances of the accident, the types of coverage you have, and your claims history. However, the increase may not be as significant as it would for an at-fault accident.

Why does my insurance go up if I didn't cause the accident?

Insurance companies raise rates for a wide variety of reasons, not just because you cause an accident or get a ticket. Industry-wide adjustments, increased claims in your region, higher claim costs and other factors you can't control can still affect the amount you'll pay for auto insurance.

Does no-fault accident increase insurance rates?

Some may raise your premiums by 10 percent, while others may charge you only 2 percent more. In addition, certain states, such as California and Oklahoma, don't allow insurance companies to increase rates after a non-fault claim.

Do insurance rates go up after no-fault accident progressive?

It may seem unfair, but accidents that aren't your fault may still increase your rate depending on your state and insurer. Not-at-fault accidents can indicate a higher likelihood of future accidents.

How long does a no-fault accident stay on your record?

In California, accidents typically stay on your driving record for a period of three years from the date of the accident. During this time, the accident will be considered a public record and, therefore, accessible by insurance companies, potential employers, and law enforcement agencies.

How much does your insurance go up after an accident

39 related questions found

What happens after a no-fault accident?

A no-fault state is one where drivers involved in a car accident are required to file claims with their own insurance companies, regardless of who caused the accident. This system relies on Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which compensates for medical expenses and lost wages up to a state-determined limit.

How do I remove a non fault accident from my driving record?

Unfortunately, there is nothing else that can be done. You will just have to wait until the claims fall off of your record. Check out our guide to filing claims to learn more about what to expect from the filing process.

Should I file a claim if I'm not at fault?

Always File a Claim, Regardless of Who Was At-Fault

One of the primary questions we receive from clients who have been in an accident is whether they should report the accident to their own auto insurance carrier, particularly when the accident was not their fault. And the answer to that question is: always.

Should I let my insurance know if it wasn't my fault?

Yes, it is generally advisable to notify your insurance company even if the accident wasn't your fault. Most insurance policies require policyholders to promptly report any accidents or incidents, regardless of fault.

What are the cons of no-fault insurance?

CONS: Fewer legal options: In most states, drivers with no-fault policies are restricted from suing unless the injuries meet a certain severity threshold. Potentially higher premiums: Some say no-fault insurance may lead to higher premiums due to more claims being filed.

Will my insurance go up if I'm not-at-fault on Reddit?

California does not permit surcharging for not-at-fault claims. In addition, if this is a second term renewal, it's likely “predatory” in a sense because some carriers will write new business at a discounted rate only to increase subsequently at renewal. Progressive is notorious for this.

What is accident forgiveness?

What is Accident Forgiveness? Available in select states, Accident Forgiveness is an auto insurance coverage option that potentially helps you avoid a rate increase after your first at-fault accident. Others on your policy can also benefit from Accident Forgiveness. But it can only be used once per policy.

What happens if no one is at fault in an accident?

You May Be Able to Turn to Your Own Insurance Policy

PIP can come into play if nobody is at fault in a car accident. Depending on the type of coverage selected, you could be entitled to compensation that covers: Medical expenses you have up to three years after the accident. 85% of wages you lost due to the accident.

Does credit score affect car insurance?

How credit-based insurance scores work. Most U.S. insurance companies use credit-based insurance scores along with your driving history, claims history and many other factors to establish eligibility for payment plans and to help determine insurance rates. Again, except in California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts.

Why did my car insurance go up $100?

Reasons that might make car insurance rates go up

Common among them are speeding tickets, DUIs, credit and moving violations. But beyond that, insurers also consider specific risks like the rates of accidents, vandalism and theft in your area, which result in higher claim rates.

Is it better to use your insurance or theirs?

After a car accident, you should notify your insurance company and file a claim, and not deal with the other driver's insurer. Except in rare circumstances, it is not wise to contact them. Your insurance company represents you, and the other driver's insurance company represents them.

How does insurance work if it's not your fault?

You will file a claim with your auto insurance for damage to your vehicle, medical bills, property damage, and, potentially, lost wages due to injury. The car insurer collects money from the at-fault driver's coverage. Your claims might be limited by the other driver's coverage limits and the state where you live.

When someone hits you, do you call your insurance or theirs?

You should call both, regardless of who you think is at fault. If it turns out the other driver is at fault, their insurance will pay, but it's helpful to have your insurance company involved.

Will insurance increase after a no-fault accident?

If you weren't at fault for the accident, then we have some good news. California law will prohibit an insurer from increasing your insurance rate if you were not at fault for a crash. Many different laws are in play, but this summary from the California Department of Insurance is helpful.

How long does an accident stay on your record?

In general, an accident in California can remain on your driving record for three years. If you've been involved in an at-fault accident in California, car insurance companies can increase your premium as you're deemed a riskier driver. Note, that California has banned increased premiums for no-fault accidents.

Why did my car insurance go up without an accident?

From California to New York, all states have varying car insurance rates because insurance companies look at geographic factors such as crime rate, number of auto accidents, and weather conditions to determine your premium. Miles You Drive: The more you drive, the more likely you will get into an accident.

How do I report a not at fault accident?

10 Steps You Can Take to Help Prove You're Not At Fault For Your Car Accident
  1. Collect the Other Driver's Information at the Scene of the Car Accident. ...
  2. Get a Police Report. ...
  3. Report the Car Accident to Law Enforcement and the DMV. ...
  4. Document Vehicle Damage. ...
  5. Contact Witnesses and Get Their Statements.

Does Progressive have accident forgiveness?

And some will have accident forgiveness available for purchase. Progressive offers free small accident forgiveness and large accident forgiveness for your first accident as part of our loyalty rewards program. You can also opt to pay for additional accident forgiveness benefits when you purchase your auto policy.