Will My Insurance Go Up After a Car Accident in Florida?

Car accidents are stressful, and one of the biggest concerns drivers have after a crash is whether their insurance rates will go up. In Florida, the answer depends on several factors, including who was at fault and the type of claims filed. Understanding how insurance companies determine rate increases can help you prepare for what comes next.

Florida’s No-Fault Insurance System

Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. PIP covers medical expenses and lost wages up to the policy limits, regardless of who caused the accident. However, this system does not mean that fault is irrelevant. Insurance companies still evaluate fault when determining potential rate increases.

When Your Insurance Rates May Increase

1. If You Were at Fault

If you caused the accident, your insurance company will likely raise your premium. Florida law allows insurers to increase rates if you were found to be “substantially at fault,” which typically means you were at least 51% responsible for the crash. The more severe the accident, the higher the potential increase.

2. If You Have Multiple Accidents

Even if you were not at fault, having multiple accidents within a short time can trigger a rate increase. If you have three or more accidents in three years, your insurer may consider you a high-risk driver and either raise your premium or refuse to renew your policy.

3. If You Receive a Traffic Violation

If you were ticketed for a serious violation, such as reckless driving or DUI, your insurance rates will likely increase. Insurers view these infractions as signs of risky behavior, which affects your premium.

4. If You File a Claim Beyond PIP

While PIP covers medical bills and lost wages, it does not cover vehicle repairs. If you file a claim under your collision coverage, your insurer may increase your rate, even if you were not at fault. Some insurers view frequent claims as an indicator of higher risk.

When Your Insurance Rates May Not Increase

1. If You Were Not at Fault

Florida law prohibits insurance companies from raising your rates solely because you were involved in an accident that was not your fault. This protection is outlined in Florida Statutes § 626.9541. However, insurers may still adjust rates due to other factors, such as multiple claims within a short time.

2. If You Have Accident Forgiveness

Some insurance policies include accident forgiveness, which means your first at-fault accident will not lead to a rate increase. This feature varies by provider and typically applies only to drivers with a clean record before the accident.

3. If You Were a Victim of a Hit-and-Run

If your vehicle was damaged in a hit-and-run accident, your rates should not go up if you file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage. However, if you use your collision coverage, your insurer might increase your rates.

How Much Can Rates Increase?

The amount your insurance increases depends on several factors, including your driving history, the severity of the accident, and the type of coverage you have. On average, drivers in Florida see a 20% to 40% increase in their premiums after an at-fault accident. This increase can last up to five years, depending on the insurer’s policies.

Steps to Minimize a Rate Increase

1. Shop Around for Better Rates – If your insurance premium rises, get quotes from other providers. Some companies offer better rates for drivers with recent accidents.

2. Take a Defensive Driving Course – Completing an approved course may qualify you for a discount and help offset any rate increases.

3. Increase Your Deductible – Raising your deductible can lower your premium, but it means paying more out of pocket if another accident occurs.

4. Maintain a Clean Driving Record – Avoiding further traffic violations and accidents can help lower your rates over time.

Get Legal Guidance After a Car Accident

If you were in a car accident in Florida, your insurance rates might increase, but not always. Your fault in the accident, claims history, and driving record all play a role. If you are unsure how an accident might impact your insurance, speaking with an attorney can help you understand your options. At D2 Law, we assist drivers in Tampa and throughout Florida with legal guidance after car accidents. Call us at (800) 790-5641 to discuss your case.