Insurance Curator Updated analysis + practical playbook for U.S. drivers — one definitive, data‑driven guide to how filing a claim changes your insurance bill, how long the surcharge lasts, and clear state-by-state dollar examples you can use today.
Key takeaways (quick)
- A recent at‑fault accident commonly increases full‑coverage premiums by roughly 40–45% on average; that translates to large dollar hikes because base premiums are higher than in prior years. (thezebra.com)
- This guide applies a conservative national benchmark (42% estimated increase for a single at‑fault collision) to each state’s average full‑coverage premium to show the likely dollar impact and three‑year extra cost (surcharge window used in most markets). See methodology and limits below. (thezebra.com)
- Not‑at‑fault accidents and most comprehensive (glass/theft/weather) claims generally cause little or no immediate surcharge — but there are exceptions by state and insurer, and frequent comprehensive claims can still affect rates or discounts. Florida and a few states have special glass/deductible laws protecting drivers — see the Florida statute example. (forbes.com)
- Surcharge durations are typically 3 years for common at‑fault events, sometimes up to 5 years (or longer for major violations like DUI) depending on state rules and insurer filing. Use this to compare short‑term vs long‑term cost of filing a claim. (insureonthespot.com)
Contents
- H2: How insurers treat different claim types (at‑fault vs not‑at‑fault vs comprehensive/glass)
- H2: State‑by‑state dollar examples (estimated) — table of 50 states
- H2: Methodology, assumptions, and limitations
- H2: When to file a claim vs pay out‑of‑pocket — 3‑5 year cost comparisons and calculators
- H2: How to reduce premium impact after a claim (practical tactics)
- H2: State & carrier special cases to watch (laws, zero‑deductible glass rules, SDIP-style surcharges)
- H2: Related guides (internal links to the content cluster)
- H2: Short checklist and next steps
How insurers treat different claim types (what raises your premium, and why)
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At‑fault collision claims: these are the costliest to your rate. Insurers view an at‑fault accident as a direct indicator of future risk and generally apply a surcharge or reclassification that raises your base rate. Market analyses show a single at‑fault crash commonly produces a large percentage increase (the industry average cited in recent analyses is in the low‑to‑mid 40% range for a typical full‑coverage driver profile). That percentage becomes a large dollar amount because base premiums have risen. (thezebra.com)
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Not‑at‑fault collisions: in many states and with many carriers, a truly not‑at‑fault crash will not produce a surcharge. However, insurers sometimes count frequent not‑at‑fault claims when underwriting or when evaluating discount eligibility — and a claim can remove a “claim‑free” discount even if it is not used to surcharge. State rules and insurer filings matter here. (insureonthespot.com)
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Comprehensive claims (glass, theft, hail, hitting an animal): generally treated differently because these events are often not tied to driver behavior. Many insurers do not raise rates for a single glass or comprehensive claim; some states even have laws protecting drivers from deductibles or surcharges for windshield claims (see Florida example below). Multiple comprehensive claims in a short timeframe, however, can attract attention and may affect renewal pricing. (forbes.com)
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High‑severity claims and violations: accidents that involve bodily injury, very high paid losses, DUI, or other serious violations cause the largest increases and longest surcharge periods — often longer than the usual 3‑year window. (insureonthespot.com)
Why percent matters more now than before
- Because national average premiums are higher than a few years ago, the same percentage surcharge now produces larger dollar increases. For example, Bankrate’s national full‑coverage average and their “at‑fault” example demonstrate the magnitude — an at‑fault profile yields a substantially higher annual premium than a clean profile. Use the tables below for state‑specific dollar examples. (bankrate.com)
State‑by‑state estimated cost increase after one at‑fault claim (real‑dollar examples)
Below is a practical state‑by‑state table that shows:
- the average annual full‑coverage premium (Bankrate’s state 2025 averages),
- an estimated percent increase after a single at‑fault accident (we apply a national benchmark of 42% used by industry analysis as a realistic median estimate), and
- the resulting estimated annual dollar increase plus the extra cost over three years (a common surcharge window).
Important: these are estimates intended for planning and comparison. Actual insurer filings, the claim severity (paid loss), your driving history, your vehicle and age, and state rules can change the outcome significantly. See the Methodology section for details and caveats. Sources: Bankrate state averages and industry analyses on post‑accident rate change. (bankrate.com)
| State | Avg annual full‑coverage premium (Bankrate) | Est % increase — 1 at‑fault accident | Est annual $ increase (42%) | Extra cost over 3 years (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $2,038 | 42% | $856 | $2,568 |
| Alaska | $2,387 | 42% | $1,003 | $3,009 |
| Arizona | $2,744 | 42% | $1,152 | $3,456 |
| Arkansas | $2,473 | 42% | $1,039 | $3,117 |
| California | $2,973 | 42% | $1,249 | $3,747 |
| Colorado | $3,144 | 42% | $1,320 | $3,960 |
| Connecticut | $2,720 | 42% | $1,142 | $3,426 |
| Delaware | $2,771 | 42% | $1,164 | $3,492 |
| Florida | $4,171 | 42% | $1,752 | $5,256 |
| Georgia | $2,939 | 42% | $1,234 | $3,702 |
| Hawaii | $1,689 | 42% | $709 | $2,127 |
| Idaho | $1,454 | 42% | $611 | $1,833 |
| Illinois | $2,315 | 42% | $972 | $2,916 |
| Indiana | $1,723 | 42% | $724 | $2,172 |
| Iowa | $1,857 | 42% | $780 | $2,340 |
| Kansas | $2,518 | 42% | $1,058 | $3,174 |
| Kentucky | $2,747 | 42% | $1,154 | $3,462 |
| Louisiana | $3,978 | 42% | $1,671 | $5,013 |
| Maine | $1,627 | 42% | $683 | $2,049 |
| Maryland | $2,793 | 42% | $1,173 | $3,519 |
| Massachusetts | $2,092 | 42% | $879 | $2,637 |
| Michigan | $3,131 | 42% | $1,315 | $3,945 |
| Minnesota | $2,528 | 42% | $1,062 | $3,186 |
| Mississippi | $2,149 | 42% | $903 | $2,709 |
| Missouri | $2,578 | 42% | $1,083 | $3,249 |
| Montana | $2,394 | 42% | $1,005 | $3,015 |
| Nebraska | $2,332 | 42% | $979 | $2,937 |
| Nevada | $3,562 | 42% | $1,496 | $4,488 |
| New Hampshire | $1,823 | 42% | $766 | $2,298 |
| New Jersey | $2,785 | 42% | $1,170 | $3,510 |
| New Mexico | $2,193 | 42% | $921 | $2,763 |
| New York | $3,916 | 42% | $1,645 | $4,935 |
| North Carolina | $2,047 | 42% | $860 | $2,580 |
| North Dakota | $1,798 | 42% | $755 | $2,265 |
| Ohio | $1,596 | 42% | $670 | $2,010 |
| Oklahoma | $2,741 | 42% | $1,151 | $3,453 |
| Oregon | $1,984 | 42% | $833 | $2,499 |
| Pennsylvania | $2,467 | 42% | $1,036 | $3,108 |
| Rhode Island | $2,946 | 42% | $1,237 | $3,711 |
| South Carolina | $2,022 | 42% | $849 | $2,547 |
| South Dakota | $2,329 | 42% | $978 | $2,934 |
| Tennessee | $2,086 | 42% | $876 | $2,628 |
| Texas | $2,545 | 42% | $1,069 | $3,207 |
| Utah | $2,131 | 42% | $895 | $2,685 |
| Vermont | $1,470 | 42% | $617 | $1,851 |
| Virginia | $2,136 | 42% | $897 | $2,691 |
| Washington | $1,845 | 42% | $775 | $2,325 |
| West Virginia | $2,175 | 42% | $914 | $2,742 |
| Wisconsin | $1,918 | 42% | $806 | $2,418 |
| Wyoming | $1,747 | 42% | $734 | $2,202 |
Sources and reading: Bankrate state averages (full‑coverage) and industry studies on post‑accident surcharge patterns (used to derive the 42% estimate). Use the table for planning — your actual numbers will vary by carrier, vehicle, age and claim severity. (bankrate.com)
Notes on the table
- “Avg annual premium” = Bankrate’s reported state full‑coverage average for 2025. These are the best readily available, recent state averages for a typical full‑coverage driver and provide a consistent baseline for comparison. (bankrate.com)
- “Est % increase” = a single, representative industry benchmark (42% after one at‑fault accident). This is an average across many insurers and will not match every carrier’s filing. Use it for comparisons and budgeting. (thezebra.com)
- “Est annual $ increase” = (avg premium × 42%) rounded. “Extra cost over 3 years” assumes the surcharge persists for 3 years — a common lookback period; some states or insurers use 4–5 years or apply a diminishing surcharge over time. (insureonthespot.com)
Methodology, assumptions, and limitations (read before you rely on these numbers)
What we used
- State average full‑coverage premiums: Bankrate’s "true cost" state dataset (2025). This is a market benchmark intended to represent a typical full‑coverage policy in each state. (bankrate.com)
- Surcharge benchmark: industry published median increase for a single at‑fault accident; we used 42% as a practical central estimate (reflecting insurer‑level averages published by market analysts). This is a single‑event assumption (one at‑fault crash). (thezebra.com)
Why we chose these benchmarks
- Using state averages + a single percentage makes the table actionable and comparable across states — readers can immediately see the dollar effect of a typical at‑fault event in their state.
- The 42% figure is consistent with public market research that reports mid‑40% average increases for at‑fault claims for typical drivers (results vary by state and insurer). (thezebra.com)
Limitations and important caveats
- Insurer variance: Each carrier files its own rate and surcharge plans with state regulators; two insurers in the same ZIP code can react differently to the same claim. The industry average hides variation — some carriers raise rates more, some less, and many use accident forgiveness programs. (insureonthespot.com)
- Claim severity: The dollar payout and whether bodily injury is involved changes surcharges dramatically. A $500 fender bender often triggers smaller or no surcharges (or may fall below a carrier’s surcharge threshold), while a large bodily‑injury suit changes everything. (insureonthespot.com)
- Lookback window: States and carriers commonly use 3‑ to 5‑year lookbacks for surcharge triggers. For some infractions (DUI), the impact lasts longer. Always check the insurer’s policy and local law. (insureonthespot.com)
- Not‑at‑fault and comprehensive claims: Many not‑at‑fault and glass claims do not raise your premium, but they can remove claim‑free discounts or be looked at by new carriers when you shop. Some states legally forbid glass deductibles or require zero deductibles for windshield replacement — meaning legal protections also change the practical calculus. (forbes.com)
If you want a personalized number
- Use the “Accident claim cost calculator” (see related guide) or get sample quotes from 3–5 insurers while telling them the claim details — that will show how carriers differ in real life. See: Accident claim cost calculator: estimate your premium increase and long-term ownership expense.
When to file a claim vs pay out‑of‑pocket: a 3–5 year cost comparison (worked examples)
Rule of thumb
- If the expected premium increase (over the next 3–5 years) plus deductible and other indirect costs exceeds the repair cost, paying out‑of‑pocket can save money — especially for minor collision damage. Conversely, large losses (total loss, high medical liability) usually belong on a claim.
Worked example A — small collision (typical)
- Scenario: You have a $1,000 collision repair. Your deductible = $500. Filing the claim costs you the $500 deductible now, but your insurer pays the remaining $500 and a surcharge may increase your premium. Using the state example:
- Suppose your state’s avg premium = $2,638 (national average). Estimated annual surcharge = 42% × $2,638 ≈ $1,109/year (rounded). Over 3 years that’s ~$3,327 extra.
- Compare: paying $500 now (out‑of‑pocket) vs filing and incurring $500 now plus ~$3,327 over 3 years (net much worse to file).
- Conclusion: For many minor collision costs near or below your deductible + modest repair costs, paying out‑of‑pocket is likely cheaper than filing. Use your own numbers: if repair cost < (deductible + 3‑yr surcharge estimate) then pay out‑of‑pocket.
Worked example B — moderate/large collision
- Scenario: Repair cost = $6,000, deductible $1,000. Filing saves you $5,000 immediately, but you may pay an annual surcharge of ≈ $1,109/year (using national avg) for 3 years = $3,327. Net benefit: $5,000 saved − $3,327 surcharge − $1,000 deductible = $673 net saved by filing. Filing makes sense.
How to run the quick test yourself
- Get or estimate the repair cost (R).
- Subtract your deductible (D). Claim payout = R − D.
- Estimate the annual surcharge (S) = base premium × estimated surcharge % (use 30–60% range to test sensitivity).
- Multi‑year surcharge cost = S × number of years (n, often 3).
- Net benefit of filing = (R − D) − (S × n). If positive and large, file. If negative, consider paying out‑of‑pocket.
Quick calculator example (national numbers):
- R = $1,000; D = $500; premium = $2,638; surcharge% = 42%; n = 3
- File net = (1,000 − 500) − (1,109 × 3) = 500 − 3,327 = −2,827 → pay out‑of‑pocket.
Sources that advise this approach: industry analysts and consumer guides — see related guides for a ready calculator. (thezebra.com)
How to reduce the premium impact after a claim — practical, insurer‑tested tactics
Short‑term steps (immediate)
- Ask about accident forgiveness: if you have it (or can buy it), your first at‑fault accident may be excluded from a premium increase. Some insurers grant it after a claim‑free period. Important to confirm with your agent. (insureonthespot.com)
- Shop and compare quotes at renewal: different carriers penalize claims differently — shopping can produce substantially lower post‑claim rates. Also get quotes before you renew. (bankrate.com)
- Bundle and re‑apply discounts: multi‑policy bundling, defensive‑driving certificates, telematics enrollment, and multi‑vehicle discounts can offset some of the surcharge. (bankrate.com)
Mid‑term steps (months to 1–2 years)
- Consider telematics/usage‑based programs: insurers often give large discounts for good driving after a claim; some programs can reduce the post‑claim penalty quickly. (bankrate.com)
- Increase deductible only if you can afford it: higher deductibles lower base premium; combine that with safe driving to bring long‑term cost down. (bankrate.com)
- Defensive driving courses: many carriers and states provide discounts for certified courses that can lower renewal rates. (bankrate.com)
Long‑term steps (2–5 years)
- Rebuild a claim‑free history: most surcharges fade after 3–5 years; one clean period will restore eligibility for claim‑free discounts and better tiers. (insureonthespot.com)
- Improve non‑driving factors: credit score (where allowed), parking location, and vehicle safety features change base rate and can reduce the proportionate effect of a past claim. (bankrate.com)
Tactics to avoid (unless necessary)
- Filing very small claims: frequent small claims (glass, minor vandalism, minor collisions) create a claims profile that can increase your renewal price or make switching harder; weigh whether repairs below a certain threshold should be paid out‑of‑pocket. (cgaa.org)
Additional reading and tools
- Use the cluster calculators and comparisons: Accident claim cost calculator: estimate your premium increase and long-term ownership expense.
- Compare how top insurers treat claims: Compare post-claim rate shock: top insurers’ average premium increases after at-fault, not-at-fault and glass claims.
State & carrier special cases to watch (laws, zero‑deductible glass rules, SDIP‑style surcharges)
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Zero‑deductible glass laws: Florida (Statute §627.7288) requires insurers to waive the comprehensive deductible for windshield repairs/replacement if you have comprehensive coverage — effectively removing the immediate out‑of‑pocket cost and encouraging prompt repairs. A few other states have glass-related consumer protections or regulatory guidance; always check state DOI guidance and your policy’s glass endorsement language. (myfreewindshield.com)
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Safe Driver / point‑based surcharge programs: several states use formal surcharge systems (e.g., North Carolina’s Safe Driver Incentive Plan — SDIP), where points and prescribed surcharges are applied by statute or rate bureau filing. These schedules define how many years the surcharge applies and how large it is, which can materially change the 3‑year arithmetic above. North Carolina recently updated its SDIP rules for certain drivers, exemplifying how state law alters practical results. (house.ncleg.gov)
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State differences in treating not‑at‑fault claims: some states limit an insurer’s ability to use not‑at‑fault claims for rating. California, for example, has strong consumer protections (Proposition 103 legacy) that constrain certain premium factors; other states may permit broader insurer discretion. Check your DOI. (bankrate.com)
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Carrier filing variance: insurers’ internal manuals and the surcharges they apply are approved by state regulators but differ widely. Before renewing after a claim, ask for a sample “post‑claim” quote or an illustration of your new rate.
Related guides (use these next; part of the same analysis cluster)
- Will my rates go up?
- Quantifying insurance premium hikes after a claim (by claim type and state)
- Accident claim cost calculator: estimate your premium increase and long-term ownership expense
- Compare post-claim rate shock: top insurers’ average premium increases after at-fault, not-at-fault and glass claims
- Minimize premium impact after a claim: policy choices and tactics that reduce long-term car insurance cost
- How many points is a claim worth? State-specific examples of claims, surcharges and monthly cost changes
- Cost comparisons: filing small claims vs paying out-of-pocket — which saves money over 3–5 years?
- Best states for claim-friendly premiums: where filing a claim costs you the least (data-driven analysis)
- Insurer ranking: which carriers raise premiums the least after a claim (useful for switching insurers)
- How deductible and claim history combine to affect premium costs — optimize for lowest total ownership expense.
Quick checklist: what to do immediately after a minor or moderate collision
- Confirm safety and exchange info; document photos and collect police report (if any).
- Get a local repair estimate before deciding whether to file. Small jobs often cost less than the long‑term surcharge. (insureonthespot.com)
- Call your agent and ask: “If I file a claim for this loss, what will my renewal premium be?” Ask for an estimate or illustration. Different carriers may answer differently — get quotes. (bankrate.com)
- Ask about accident forgiveness and whether it applies. (insureonthespot.com)
- If you file, enroll in any available telematics program and ask about defensive driving discounts to offset the surcharge. (bankrate.com)
Final notes — expert perspective
- Filing a big loss almost always belongs on your claim history; major expenses, medical bills and total losses are what insurance is for. The calculus matters most for small repairs.
- Use state averages and the percent estimates above to budget and plan, but get carrier‑specific quotes before deciding. The difference between the cheapest carrier and the most expensive after a claim can exceed the surcharge itself — shopping is powerful. (bankrate.com)
If you’d like, I can:
- Run the same 3‑year vs 5‑year “file vs pay” math for your exact state, estimated vehicle repair bill and deductible, and show exact break‑even points; or
- Pull insurer‑specific post‑claim average increases for your ZIP code (requires live quote pulls) so you can compare real options.
References (selected)
- Bankrate — The true cost of auto insurance, state averages (2025). (bankrate.com)
- The Zebra — analysis of how accidents and violations affect rates (industry median % increases). (thezebra.com)
- Forbes Advisor — guidance on glass & windshield claims and whether they raise premiums. (forbes.com)
- Florida Statute §627.7288 — comprehensive coverage; deductible not to apply to motor vehicle glass. (myfreewindshield.com)
- Consumer/industry guides on surcharges and claim duration (practical rules of thumb: 3–5 years). (insureonthespot.com)
Would you like me to:
- run a custom “file vs pay” calculator for your state + repair estimate, or
- show insurer‑level examples for 3 top carriers in your state so you can see how much each would raise your rate after the same claim?