Will My Car Insurance Go Up After an Accident?

Auto · Updated October 2026

Fault matters most

Insurers generally raise rates after an at-fault accident, because a driver who has caused one crash is statistically more likely to cause another. An accident where you were not at fault is often treated differently, and many companies do not surcharge for it. Each company sets its own rules, which is one reason rates after an accident can vary so much from one insurer to the next.

How long an accident follows you

Many companies look back three to five years at accidents and violations when setting your rate. The effect usually lessens as the accident ages. Missouri also keeps records of moving violations and points on your driving record for set periods. When an accident or ticket ages off what an insurer considers, it can be a good time to re-shop.

Should you file a small claim?

If you damage your own car and the repair is only a little more than your deductible, paying it yourself may cost less than a possible surcharge over several years. But there are cases where you should always report:

Anyone else is involved. If another person or their property was involved, report it to your insurer even if you plan to settle it privately. Injuries can surface later, and late reporting can create coverage problems.
Anyone may be hurt.
The damage is significant.

Reporting an accident to your insurer and filing a claim for payment are not always the same thing. If you are unsure, call us and we can talk it through before you decide.

Accident forgiveness

Some companies offer accident forgiveness, which prevents a rate increase after your first at-fault accident under certain conditions. It may come with a clean-record requirement or an extra cost. If you have a long clean history, it is worth asking about, though it rarely makes sense to switch companies just for it.

What to do after an accident

Make sure everyone is safe and call 911 if anyone is hurt.
Exchange names, phone numbers, insurance information and plate numbers.
Take photos of the vehicles, the scene and any injuries.
Report the claim to your insurance company. Their claims number is on your ID card and on our payments and claims page.
Call us. We cannot decide a claim, but we can explain the process and help if something stalls.

Re-shop after the dust settles

If your renewal comes back much higher after an accident, do not assume every company will see it the same way. Insurers weigh accidents differently. We can compare the same coverage across our companies and show you the options. If your record now includes several incidents, see insurance after tickets, accidents or a lapse.

Common questions

Will a not-at-fault accident raise my rates?

Often not, but it depends on the company. Many do not surcharge for accidents where you were not at fault.

How long does an accident affect my insurance?

Many companies look back three to five years, with the effect lessening over time.

Should I pay for a small accident myself?

Sometimes, if only your car is damaged and the repair is close to your deductible. If anyone else is involved or could be hurt, report it.

Can I switch companies after an accident?

Yes. Companies rate accidents differently, so comparing quotes after a surcharge is often worthwhile.

The short version

At-fault accidents usually raise rates; not-at-fault often do not.
Accidents commonly affect pricing for three to five years.
Always report accidents involving other people.
Re-shop after a surcharge; companies weigh accidents differently.

Questions about your own situation? Call 417.206.3733 or send us your current policy. We are licensed in Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma, and you can buy by phone without coming in.

Written by Auto Insurance Express. Reviewed by Philip Edwards, founder. Philip has run independent insurance agencies in southwest Missouri since 1997. More about the agency.

General information, not advice about your specific policy. Coverage, exclusions and eligibility are determined by the policy forms and endorsements your insurer issues, and state rules change. Confirm details with us before you rely on them.

Will my insurance go up after an accident?