Does Car Insurance Go Up After A Claim?

  1. 37376 POINTS
    David G. Pipes, CLU®, RICP®
    Business Development Officer, T.D. McNeil Insurance Services, Fresno, California
    A claim can affect the renewal pricing of an auto policy.  However, the claim does not always trigger a change in premium.  The decision to increase the premium is based upon the cost to the company for the claim.  This is not an attempt to recoup what was paid out.  Rather it is recognition that this car may be more susceptible to claims than a standard car, so there are points assigned to the car that translate into higher premiums for a few years.
    Answered on June 26, 2014
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  2. 21750 POINTS
    Jim Winkler
    CEO/Owner, Winkler Financial Group, Houston, Texas
    That is a great question! In some cases, it is likely that a claim can increase your premiums, but it is not always the case. Many companies offer a "forgiveness" benefit, which allows for an infrequent, or first accident claim to go through without damaging your record with them. It may also depend upon the circumstances of the claim as to whether or not the price will go up. It is pretty much a certainty that if there was  a hefty property damage claim, or any kind of criminal act involved, that you will see an increase. I hope that helps - thanks for asking!
    Answered on June 26, 2014
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  3. 14231 POINTS
    Tom Sheehan
    Agency Owner, The Thomas G Sheehan Agency, 27 Glen Road Sandy Hook, CT 06482
    Claim activity can sometimes result in increased premiums.  However, some companies offer accident and/or violation forgiveness benefits either as an inclusion for long term policy holders or as an optional endorsement for new policy holders.  Since it is an endorsement, there will be a premium charge however the savings over having your policy surcharged 25% or more for three years after an accident is pretty self evident.
    Answered on July 9, 2014
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