The increase in car insurance premiums after an accident varies widely depending on several factors:

• Fault: If you are at fault, your insurance rates typically increase more significantly-often by around 20% to 45% or more. If you are not at fault, rates might still rise but usually by a smaller margin, often around 10% or less

• Severity and Cost of the Accident: Minor accidents with small claims may cause a smaller increase than major accidents involving extensive damage or injury

• Claims History: Multiple claims or a history of accidents can lead to larger premium hikes, as insurers see you as higher risk

• Accident Forgiveness: Some insurers offer accident forgiveness programs that prevent rate increases after your first at-fault accident or for minor accidents

• State and Insurer Policies: The impact varies by state regulations and insurer practices. Some states limit increases after small accidents, and insurers differ in how long they consider accidents in rate calculations (typically 3 to 5 years)

• Other factors: Your overall driving record, the type of coverage you have, and your no-claims bonus status also influence how much your premium rises

On average, after an at-fault accident, car insurance premiums can increase by about $872 per year, but this varies greatly depending on the above factors

. Duration of Impact: Rate increases usually last 3 to 5 years, gradually decreasing if you maintain a clean record afterward

. Mitigation: To reduce the impact, you can shop around for better rates, take defensive driving courses, raise deductibles, or adjust coverage options

. In summary, after an accident, expect your car insurance premium to rise, especially if you are at fault, but the exact increase depends on accident severity, fault, insurer policies, and your driving history. Some insurers’ accident forgiveness programs can prevent or reduce the increase. The rate hike typically lasts several years but can be mitigated by shopping around and safe driving