No one plans for a car accident. But in Pennsylvania, where winter road conditions, deer crossings, and heavy commuter traffic create real risk throughout the year, accidents happen every day. If you have been in a collision, one of the first things on your mind is probably what happens next with your auto insurance. Will your rates go up? Will your coverage change? Here is a clear, honest breakdown of what PA drivers can expect.
What to Do Immediately After an Accident
Before the insurance conversation even begins, there are steps you need to take at the scene. Make sure everyone is safe and call 911 if there are injuries. Exchange information with the other driver, including insurance details, name, phone number, and license plate. Document the scene with photos from multiple angles. File a police report if possible. Then notify your insurance company as soon as you can, even if you were not at fault.
Will My Rates Go Up After an Accident?
This is the question most drivers ask first. The honest answer depends on the circumstances. If you were at fault for the accident, your premium is likely to increase at your next renewal. The amount varies depending on your insurer, the severity of the accident, your claims history, and how long you have been a customer with that carrier. Some insurers offer accident forgiveness programs that protect first-time claimants from a rate increase. It is worth checking whether your policy includes this benefit.
If you were not at fault, your rate may not go up at all, especially if the other driver’s insurance covers all damages. However, even a not-at-fault accident can affect your premium with some carriers, so it is worth asking your agent directly after the incident.
What Is an SR-22 and Do You Need One?
If you were driving without insurance at the time of the accident, or if your license was suspended as a result of the incident, you may be required to file an SR-22 with PennDOT. An SR-22 is not insurance itself. It is a certificate your insurer files on your behalf to prove you meet the state’s minimum coverage requirements. Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 filings, so this requirement may affect your options when shopping for a new policy.
How Long Does an Accident Stay on Your Record in PA?
In Pennsylvania, an at-fault accident typically stays on your driving record for three years. During that time, it can affect your insurance premium. After three years, its impact generally decreases, though some insurers look back five or more years when calculating rates. Keeping a clean record in the years following an accident is the best way to recover your standing with your carrier.
Can You Lose Your Insurance After an Accident?
Your insurer can choose not to renew your policy at the end of your term, especially if you have had multiple accidents or traffic violations in a short period. Being non-renewed is different from being canceled mid-policy, which can typically only happen for reasons like non-payment or fraud. If your policy is not renewed, you will need to shop for coverage elsewhere. Depending on your record, you may end up in the high-risk market with higher premiums, but you will still be able to find coverage.
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
The best thing you can do after an accident is stay informed and proactive. Contact your agent as soon as possible to understand how the claim will affect your specific policy. Review your coverage to make sure you have adequate protection going forward. If your rates increase significantly at renewal, shop around. An independent agent can compare multiple carriers on your behalf and find the best available rate given your current record.
Ready to Get Covered?
If you have recently been in an accident or are concerned about your current coverage, the team at Gilmartin Insurance Agency is here to help. We can review your policy, explain your options clearly, and make sure you have the right protection in place. Contact us today.
