July 27, 2023
Last Updated: March 20, 2026
If you’ve recently been in an auto collision in Florida, you’re not alone. In 2025, Florida experienced over 360,000 crashes, resulting in injuries to more than 230,000 people. Once you’ve made sure everyone is safe and used your personal injury protection (PIP) insurance to get medical care, you may wonder: Do insurance rates go up after an accident and how much will my rate increase?
While every car insurance company has its own way of calculating risk, an at-fault accident may result in a car insurance rate increase of 20% to 50% or more. Understanding why this rate hike happens – and what you can do about it – can help you manage your future auto insurance costs.
When you file a claim, your insurance provider looks at more than just damages to the car. They consider several factors to determine if you are a higher-risk driver, including:
The total cost of the incident is a major factor in your car insurance premium. A fender bender or other minor accident can raise your rate, but the increase is usually much lower than that of a major collision. If your car insurer has to pay out a significant amount for medical bills or vehicle replacements, the insurance increase after an accident will likely be higher.
Maintaining a clean driving record is one of the most effective ways to keep your costs down. However, if you have recent speeding tickets, other violations or prior claims, you may see a more significant increase in your rate due to a pattern of risk.
Your PIP insurance helps cover medical costs regardless of who was at fault. Whether your rates increase may depend on the specific features of your policy, such as whether you have accident forgiveness coverage.
Not always. Your car insurance rate may stay the same if:
You’ll see the largest rate hike for accidents causing major damage, such as totaling a vehicle, or for serious traffic violations, including reckless driving and DUIs.
In addition, your insurance rates will most likely go up if you’re at fault, especially if an accident causes injuries that need medical care. Insurers are generally prohibited from raising your rates for a no-fault accident, but if the insurer determines in good faith that you were substantially at fault, or more than 50% responsible, you can expect a significant increase.
In Florida, PIP benefits can help with medical costs, regardless of fault, so you can get the care you need immediately following a car accident. Still, those injuries can affect how your auto insurer calculates risk. While a single PIP claim where you aren’t at fault is legally protected from triggering a rate hike, insurers may still increase your premium or choose not to renew your policy if you are involved in three or more accidents within three-years, regardless of fault.
Deciding whether to file a claim depends on the cost of repairs versus your deductible and the potential rate hike. If the repair cost is only slightly above your deductible, paying out of pocket might save you more money. However, if any injuries are involved, you should always file a claim and obtain a medical evaluation.
On average, an accident affects your car insurance rate for three to five years. The surcharge, an additional fee added to your premium due to an at-fault accident, is typically highest in the first year and gradually decreases as you continue to drive safely.
It usually takes three years of maintaining a clean driving record to see a decrease in your premiums after a surcharge. After five years, most car insurance companies stop factoring the accident into your premium calculation. If you’re eligible, taking a defensive driving course can lower your car insurance premium. You can also shop around to see if other car insurers offer better rates for drivers with your specific driving history.
Car accidents are very likely to increase your insurance. The amount of the increase will depend on many factors, including:
Even if you’re worried about a rate hike after a collision, your health should always come first. Delaying medical attention can lead to long-term physical issues that are much more costly – and difficult to manage – than a temporary increase in your insurance. At Complete Care, our care teams provide comprehensive evaluations and the documentation you need for your insurance claim.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, call Complete Care. We are here to help answer questions and provide access to care at any of our various locations across Central Florida. Call us at (844) 699-2273 or request an appointment online.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. PIP laws vary by state — please consult a licensed professional for guidance on your specific situation.
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