Bad Driving Record? Best Cheap Car Insurance After an Accident

State Farm provides the best and cheapest full coverage car insurance for drivers with accidents on their record, regardless of age.

Accidents can raise insurance rates because they signal higher risk to insurance companies. Providers will typically charge you increased rates as long as the accident is on your record, generally between three and five years. The exact timing can vary based on the accident's severity, where the driver lives and the insurance company's rules. Some states and companies might view minor or non-fault accidents differently.

For most drivers with at-fault accident record, State Farm is the best and cheapest option. It has MoneyGeek score of 89 out of 100 with $$1,091 annual premium. Travelers comes in second with a score of 88/100 and an annual premium of $1,506.

The table below is designed to guide you in choosing the right coverage. You can search for the best providers based on your age group and preferred type of coverage to help you make an informed decision.

By comparing quotes from different providers, you can find the best car insurance that suits your needs. Additionally, you can use MoneyGeek's car insurance calculator to preview potential policy costs before entering your personal details into a quote tool.

On average, State Farm offers the cheapest full coverage policy after an accident for every age group:

• Drivers aged 22-29: $1,347
• Drivers aged 30-59: $1,091
• Drivers aged 60+: $1,004

The provider’s policies are 34% cheaper on average than the national average for drivers with a record.

Several factors determine your insurance premiums, not just accidents on your record. You can control some, like your address and credit score. Others, like your age or local insurance costs, are out of your hands. Even with an accident on your driving record, you can keep costs down by using available car insurance discounts and comparing insurance options every year for the best deal.

State Farm is the most affordable car insurance provider in 21 U.S. states. State Farm consistently delivers unmatched value for drivers seeking cost-effective coverage, solidifying its reputation as a leading choice for many nationwide.

Car insurance rates can vary significantly from one state to another, especially for drivers with an at-fault accident on their record. Each state has its own regulations and laws that influence insurance premiums. In some states, specific laws dictate how much an insurer can increase rates after an at-fault accident, ensuring that hikes remain within reasonable limits. Drivers should know their state's guidelines to understand the potential impact on their insurance costs.

The following table displays the cheapest insurer by state for both minimum and full coverage policies.

For those affiliated with the U.S. Armed Forces, including active-duty service members, veterans and their families, select insurance providers may offer exclusive military discounts. Among these, USAA stands out, earning a score of 93 out of 100 in MoneyGeek’s best car insurance comparison review. USAA frequently presents the most favorable rates for drivers with an at-fault accident violation.

If a driver has an at-fault accident on their record and is insured with USAA, they can expect to pay an average annual rate of $953 for full coverage.

Car insurance premiums often increase after an at-fault accident because insurance companies see drivers with poor driving records as riskier to insure.

According to MoneyGeek’s in-depth analysis of car insurance rates, full coverage policy costs increase by 24% after an at-fault accident, which amounts to an average of $208.

A hike in car insurance premiums after an accident can strain your finances. However, by being proactive and exploring various options, you can find ways to mitigate the increase and secure a more affordable rate. Whether it's shopping around for different providers, taking advantage of discounts or improving your driving habits, there are actionable steps you can take to ease the financial burden.

Knowledge empowers your decisions, so spend some time looking over our frequently asked questions to equip yourself with the answers you need to pick the best car insurance following an accident.