I will soon be shopping for my car insurance and have had three accidents in the past. One was a few years ago when I was at fault and received a citation. The second was when I was rear-ended and wasn’t at fault. The third happened a couple of months ago when the other driver ran a red light, but since there was no physical evidence, neither of us was deemed at fault. I expect the recent accident will impact my premium, but will the other two also affect the price? I understand rates can vary by state (I live in Wisconsin), but I’m having trouble finding a clear answer.
1 Like
An accident will generally affect your auto insurance rates for three to five years, depending on your state and provider. Keep in mind that the exact duration can vary, so it is best to check your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website for specific details. After this period, the accident typically “falls off” your record and no longer impacts your rates.
Whether it’s an accident, a moving violation or a traffic citation, a blemish on your driving record can spark an increase in your car insurance premiums. These types of rate increases typically last anywhere from three to five years, assuming you don’t incur any new infractions. Improving your credit in the meantime could help reduce your premiums—and strengthen your overall financial health in the process.