If you’ve been in a car accident and it was your fault, you’re probably wondering: how much will my insurance go up with an at-fault accident? This is an important question in Texas because being “at fault” can affect your insurance rate for years.
Let’s break down how insurance companies decide rate hikes, what accident surcharge Texas rules are, and how you might lower your premium even after a crash.
How Insurance Companies Evaluate Fault in Texas
Texas is an “at-fault” state. That means the person who caused the crash has to pay for the damages through their auto insurance. When you file a claim, the coverage companies will check things like:
- Police reports
- Photos from the scene
- Witness statements
They also look at what you say when you file an insurance claim. If they decide you caused the accident, your insurance premium may go up after an accident.
The more serious the crash, the more your insurance rates may rise. Whether it was a small accident or a major collision, the rate increase depends on what your insurer finds during the investigation.
How Much Will My Insurance Go Up With an At-Fault Accident?
How much will my insurance go up with an at-fault accident? Nationwide, your auto insurance rate can rise by 30% to as much as 45% after your first at-fault accident.
In Texas, it’s often in that same range, but it varies by state and insurance provider. Some coverage companies raise insurance rates after an accident more than others. According to Progressive, drivers may see a premium rise for three to five years after an at-fault accident.
Your insurance rate won’t go up as much if:
- It’s your first accident
- It’s a small claim
- Your driving record is clean
But remember, a car insurance premium rise is common even for one crash.
What Is an Accident Surcharge in Texas?
An accident surcharge is a fee added to your insurance rate after a crash. In Texas, insurance companies are allowed to charge this extra fee after you’re involved in an accident.
Here’s how it works:
- A minor accident might bring a small accident surcharge Texas fee
- A serious crash (like one with injuries or lots of damage) can bring a much bigger charge
The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) says that not all auto insurance companies charge the same fee. That’s why it is smart to compare car insurance rates if you get into an accident.
Other Factors That Influence Your Premium Increase
Not every accident will raise your insurance rate the same way. Other things that matter include:
- Severity of the accident: More damage means a higher insurance rise.
- Driving record: If you had a prior accident, your insurer may charge more.
- Type of coverage: Full coverage vs. liability insurance affects cost.
- Your insurance provider’s rules: Some car insurance companies are stricter.
Every auto insurance provider has different rules on how much your insurance increase after an accident will be.
Can You Avoid a Premium Increase After an Accident?
You might be wondering if it’s possible to avoid a rate hike. Good news—sometimes, you can!
Some insurers offer accident forgiveness, which means your rates won’t go up for your first accident. Accident forgiveness benefits can keep your insurance rate stable.
You can also:
- Take a defensive driving course
- Raise your deductible
- Compare quotes from the cheapest car insurance companies
Progressive offers accident forgiveness programs, and Geico also gives it to customers who earn accident forgiveness with a good driving record. Some companies even offer free accident forgiveness once per policy period.
These insurance products can help keep insurance rates from increasing and even prevent insurance rates from going up too much.
Legal Considerations After an At-Fault Accident
Sometimes you may feel the crash wasn’t fully your fault. In those cases, a personal injury attorney can help.
A lawyer can:
- Review your insurance information
- Help you dispute fault
- Talk to the insurance company’s adjuster for you
If you weren’t fully at fault, or it was a not-at-fault accident, your insurance rates even might stay the same. That’s why legal help can protect you when you’re worried your rate after an accident will rise.
At Austin Accident Lawyer, we don’t charge you unless we win your case. We even help with property damage claims for free.
Conclusion
So, how much will my insurance go up with an at-fault accident? Usually, your car insurance rate will rise 30%–50%, and it could last three to five years. The exact rate increase depends on your insurer, your driving record, and the type of car insurance policy you have.
To protect yourself:
- Ask your insurance agent if they offer accident forgiveness
- Take a defensive driving course
- Shop around with other insurance companies
- Talk to a lawyer if you’re unsure whether the accident was your fault
Don’t forget your insurance rate isn’t set forever. You have options to keep insurance rates from going too high. And if you’re ever unsure, reach out for help. At our firm, you work directly with your lawyers, and we’re here to fight for you.
