An accident typically stays on your insurance record for about 3 to 5 years , but the exact duration depends on several factors including the severity of the accident, who was at fault, the insurer's policies, and state regulations
Key Points on Duration:
- Minor accidents (like small fender benders) usually remain for around 3 years.
- More serious accidents involving injuries or significant damage can stay on your record for 5 years or longer.
- Major violations such as DUI-related accidents may affect your record and premiums for 10 years or more in some states
- The "clock" generally starts from the date of the accident, not when the claim is resolved
How It Affects Insurance:
- Insurance companies use accident records to assess risk and determine premiums. Having an accident on your record often leads to higher rates for the duration it remains on your record.
- Some insurers offer accident forgiveness, but not all accidents qualify
- Even if an accident is no longer factored into your premium after several years, it might still appear on your official driving record
Variability by State and Insurer:
- State laws influence how long accidents stay on your DMV record, which insurers often use to set rates. For example, New Jersey law states accidents fall off after 3 years, while other states may have different durations
- Insurance companies typically ask about accidents within the last 3 to 5 years when you apply for coverage, though some may inquire about accidents up to 7 or 10 years ago in rare cases
Summary:
- Expect an accident to impact your insurance premiums for 3 to 5 years on average.
- More severe or at-fault accidents may remain longer.
- Check your state's regulations and your insurer’s specific policies for precise details.
This timeframe helps drivers understand when their insurance rates might return to normal after an accident
