If you’ve been in a car accident in New York, you may wonder how your insurance will be affected. Whether your rates increase depends on the severity of the incident, who was at fault, and whether anyone files a claim.
In a no-fault insurance state like New York, your policy’s personal injury protection (PIP) covers medical expenses, regardless of fault. However, even this protection doesn’t always prevent premium hikes.
On average, rates increase between 28% and 40% after an accident. Understanding how insurers assess risk and what factors affect premiums can help you manage the financial impact of a car accident.
How Much Does Insurance Go Up After an Accident in New York?
The extent of any rate increase depends on the circumstances of the crash. Insurers consider fault, the cost of damages, and whether claims were filed. If you were responsible for the collision in New York, your premiums are more likely to rise. Even if you weren’t at fault, some companies still raise rates if a claim is filed under your policy.
While the statewide average rate increase falls between 28% and 40%, factors such as your driving history and insurer policies can result in higher or lower adjustments. Shopping for coverage after an accident may help you find a better rate.
How Long Does an At-Fault Accident Affect Insurance?
An at-fault accident’s impact on your premiums typically lasts three to five years. Insurers consider these incidents when evaluating your risk, which means rates may stay elevated during this period. Maintaining a clean driving record and avoiding additional claims may gradually decrease your rates.
The exact duration depends on your insurance provider’s policies and the severity of the accident. Serious incidents, such as those involving injuries or substantial damage, may increase longer-lasting premiums.
Will My Insurance Go Up If I’m Not at Fault?
Even if you’re not at fault, your insurance rates may still increase in New York. Some providers view any claim, regardless of fault, as an indicator of higher risk. For instance, if another driver caused the crash and your insurer covered repairs or medical costs, your premiums could be affected.
To minimize this risk, always report the details of the crash accurately. Providing police reports, witness statements, or other evidence supporting your lack of fault may help when discussing the claim with your insurer.
How Long Does It Take for an Accident to Come Off Your Insurance?
Most accidents stop affecting your insurance within three years, though some insurers extend this period to five years for severe cases. Monitoring your policy and keeping track of when accidents expire ensures you’re aware of potential changes in your premiums. If your insurer doesn’t automatically adjust rates, contact them to discuss possible reductions to your car insurance after an accident.
How Insurance Providers Evaluate Risk After an Accident
Insurance companies use several factors to determine premium changes after an accident, including:
- Fault determination—being at fault increases the likelihood of higher premiums;
- Claim size—large claims, such as those involving medical costs, have a greater impact;
- Driving record—multiple accidents or violations compound rate increases; and
- Coverage type—using collision or PIP coverage for repairs or medical care can affect rates.
Understanding how these elements influence decisions helps you anticipate changes and explore options for lowering premiums.
Concerned About Your Car Insurance Rates After an Accident?
If you were recently involved in a car accident, it’s normal to worry about the impact on your insurance rates. Remember, it’s crucial not to admit fault after an accident and to speak with an experienced NY personal injury lawyer.
At the Law Offices of Theodore A. Naima, we have over 25 years of experience helping accident victims recover meaningful compensation. To learn more and schedule a free consultation today, call or connect with us through our secure online contact form.
Theodore A. Naima
Theodore A. Naima is the founding partner of the Law Offices of Theodore A. Naima, a Personal Injury & Medical Malpractice Law Firm based in New York. In 2015, Ted was awarded the prestigious AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, the company that has long been recognized as setting the gold standard for lawyer ratings, signifying the highest degree of peer recognition and professional excellence.
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