How Long Does an Accident Stay on Your Record?

We hear questions like this a lot.  Tickets and accidents can cause spikes to your car insurance rates and no one wants that.  In some cases, it can even lead to your policy being cancelled!

The good news is that they eventually drop off and your rate goes back down, as long as you keep your record "clean" after that. "Clean" means no tickets or at-fault accidents until it stops affecting your driving record. The bad news is that it typically takes 3 years for that to happen.

Take a Defensive Driving Course

If you get a ticket, you may be able to avoid having a surcharge on your policy by taking a defensive driving course and getting the ticket removed.  This will depend on your past record and what the court offers, but it is a good option! You'll only be able to do this once in that three-year span, however. If you get another ticket within that time, you will see your rates go up.

Utilize Insurance Discounts to Offset Costs

If your rates do go up, make sure you are taking advantage of all other discounts to offset the increase.  Bring all of your insurance to one company so you take advantage of multi-policy discounts.  Raise your deductible for a while so you pay more out-of-pocket in the event of an accident, but have a lower monthly rate.

Have questions?  SAV-ON Insurance is always available to help!  Just give us a call at 888-867-2866 and schedule a free review to see what is available and how we can keep your rates manageable even after an accident.