Accidents happen, even to the safest drivers. That’s where accident forgiveness comes in. Accident forgiveness is an auto insurance feature that prevents your insurance rates from going up after a car accident. While each insurance company handles it differently, the basic idea is the same: protect your rates after your first accident.
For example, some insurers use accident forgiveness as a reward for safe driving, applying a discount to your policy, while others may waive a rate increase for your first accident. Progressive, for instance, includes certain accident forgiveness benefits automatically in most states.
How Does Accident Forgiveness Work?
Accident forgiveness ensures your insurance rate won’t jump after an accident claim. How you get it depends on your insurer. Some include it at no additional charge, while others offer it as an add-on for a slightly higher premium. Keep in mind that accident forgiveness isn’t available everywhere, and eligibility varies by insurer.
To understand how accident forgiveness is handled by different insurers, check out resources from the Insurance Information Institute and NerdWallet’s guide on car insurance discounts.
Is Accident Forgiveness Worth It for Safe Drivers?
Even if you consider yourself a safe driver, accident forgiveness can be valuable. Why? Because you can’t control other drivers on the road. One mistake by another motorist could result in a claim on your policy. Accident forgiveness protects you from a rate increase in these situations, keeping your insurance more affordable.
Progressive Accident Forgiveness Options
Progressive offers several types of accident forgiveness benefits, depending on your driving history and loyalty:
- Small Accident Forgiveness: Automatically included for new Progressive customers in most states. This applies if your first claim is $500 or less, ensuring your rates don’t increase.
- Large Accident Forgiveness: Available to long-term, accident-free Progressive customers. After five consecutive years of safe driving and no violations, your rates won’t increase even for claims exceeding $500.
- Purchased Accident Forgiveness: You can also buy extra accident forgiveness when you start or renew your policy. Typically, one eligible accident per policy period can be forgiven.
How to Get Accident Forgiveness
For new Progressive customers, accident forgiveness can often be added automatically. To check your eligibility or add it to your policy, you can:
- Call Progressive at 1-866-749-7436
- Get a quote online
Remember, accident forgiveness can be a smart way to protect your rates and avoid surprises after an accident.
