How Much Does Your Insurance Go Up After an Accident in California?
Accidents happen, and unfortunately, they can sometimes lead to an increase in your insurance premiums. In California, the amount of the increase will depend on several factors, including the severity of the accident, your driving record, and the type of insurance coverage you have.
Factors That Affect Your Insurance Premium Increase
- Severity of the accident: The more damage caused by the accident, the higher your insurance premium is likely to go up.
- Your driving record: If you have a history of accidents or traffic violations, your insurance premium will be higher than if you have a clean driving record.
- Type of insurance coverage: The type of insurance coverage you have will also affect the amount of your premium increase. For example, if you have comprehensive coverage, which covers damage to your car not caused by a collision, your premium will be higher than if you only have liability coverage, which covers damage to other people's property or injuries to other people.
Average Increase in Insurance Premiums After an Accident
It is difficult to give an exact figure for the average increase in insurance premiums after an accident in California. However, a recent study by the Insurance Information Institute found that the average increase in car insurance premiums after an at-fault accident was 19%.
How to Avoid an Increase in Your Insurance Premium After an Accident
There are a few things you can do to avoid an increase in your insurance premium after an accident:
- Be a good driver: The best way to avoid an increase in your insurance premium is to be a good driver. This means driving defensively, obeying the law, and avoiding accidents.
- Take a defensive driving course: Taking a defensive driving course can help you improve your driving skills and reduce your risk
of getting into an accident. - Shop around for a new insurance company: If you are not happy with your current insurance company, you may be able to find a new company that offers lower rates.
- Consider raising your deductible: Raising your deductible can help you lower your insurance premium. However, you will have to pay more out of pocket if you get into an accident.
- File a claim only if necessary: If the damage to your car is minor, you may be able to avoid filing a claim by paying for the repairs out of pocket.
Related FAQs
How to avoid an insurance increase after a first-time accident?
- If you have a clean driving record, you may be able to avoid an insurance increase after a first-time accident by taking a defensive driving course.
How to avoid an insurance increase after an accident that wasn't your fault?
- If you were not at fault for the accident, you should be able to avoid an insurance increase. However, it is important to document the accident and report it to your insurance company as soon as possible.
How to get your insurance rates back down after an accident?
- The best way to get your insurance rates back down after an accident is to be a good driver and avoid getting into any more accidents. You may also be able to get your rates back down by taking a defensive driving course or shopping around for a new insurance company.
How long will an accident stay on your insurance record?
- Accidents typically stay on your insurance record for five years. However, some insurance companies may keep accidents on your record for longer.
How can I prove that I wasn't at fault for an accident?
- If you were not at fault for an accident, you will need to gather evidence to prove your case. This may include eyewitness testimony, police reports, and photos of the accident scene.