What happens if I have multiple claims on my car insurance?

Insurers typically look at claims over a multi-year period. So, whether you've filed two insurance claims in six months or two claims in two years, you'll be seen as having multiple car insurance claims. When you've had multiple claims, your rate may increase, even if you weren't at fault in the accident (depending on your state and your insurer). While an insurer can't cancel your policy mid-term if you've made multiple claims, they may choose not to renew your policy.

3 to read

Explore Progressive Answers' auto editorial guidelines to find out why you can trust the car insurance information you find here.

How insurance companies view multiple car insurance claims

If you've made multiple car accident claims during a given period, it counts as having multiple claims. If one of the claims is still unresolved and the insurance company has not yet paid the claim, they still consider you to have multiple claims. It doesn't matter how much time passes between claims if they all occurred during that given period. Whether you get into two car accidents in one day, two car accidents in three months, or two accidents spread two and a half years apart, your insurer may view these the same way.

If you have two mishaps with your car during a tight timeframe, is it possible to group them into one claim and avoid filing multiple claims? Most likely, no. For example, if you’re involved in a fender bender one day and a rock cracks your windshield a few days later, you'll need to file separate claims.

If you file several claims during a short time, an insurer can increase your rate or may choose not to renew your car insurance policy when you reach the end of your term. Apart from discriminatory factors like race, gender, or disability, insurance companies can legally decide not to renew your policy for any reason they see fit .Filing multiple insurance claims cause the insurance company not to renew the policy. Even if you switch to a new auto insurer, your rate will likely increase because your new insurer may view you as a higher risk for an accident.

Do you need to file a claim with Progressive? Our system makes it easy to file and track your claims online.

What happens when you're not at-fault?

At times, you may need to file an auto insurance claim even if you weren't at fault. If something happens outside of your control, such as vandalism or storm damage, you'll file a comprehensive claim. If another driver hits you, you may still need to file a claim with your insurance company. In both situations, you may see an increase in your policy's rate following the first claim, depending on your state and insurer.

If you file too many claims, your insurance company may choose not to renew your policy, even if the claims were beyond your control. You can help prevent claims by practicing defensive driving and storing your car in a secure place where it's less likely to be damaged by weather, falling objects, or vandalism. Learn more about how car insurance covers vandalism.