Does Every Accident Increase My Auto Insurance Premium?
By Chad R Fisher

If you get in an accident, it's not the end of the world as far as your auto insurance rates are concerned. One of the most important variables in determining whether or not your rates will go up, is whether or not you were at fault in the accident. If you caused over $5,000 in damage in a severe collision and were found to be 100% at fault you can probably expect your premiums will increase. However if you got in a small fender-bender that caused a minimal amount of damage and did not receive a ticket, there's a chance your rate may not increase much at all.

Some auto insurance companies give good driver bonuses and they may allow one small at fault accident over a period of 5 or 7 years. You should ask your carrier whether or not they allow one small ticket or accident and if it happens will it not be expected to increase your rates. Historically if you get a ticket you can expect your monthly auto rate to increase 30-50% a month, so it's important you try to keep your driving record as clean as possible. Your rates will not increase until your car insurance company finds out about your ticket, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't let your carrier know about the ticket. It pays to be proactive as your insurance company will be raising your rates anyway and they will appreciate the heads up. Also if you decide to switch carriers right after a ticket, your new carrier will find out, so make sure to alert them of anything that might not currently be on your record.

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