How long do car accidents affect my insurance rates?

I have heard that accidents and tickets will affect car insurance rates for five years. I was in an accident four years ago, that was determined to be my fault. Now, my (old) insurance company just settled this claim. Is this going to affect my rates for five years from the settlement date or from the date of the accident?

crizzy u, I recommend an online insurance quote. It's free and quick to do. http://www.autoadviceonline.com/Auto-Insurance-Quote.html

In most states, accidents and violations can affect your insurance rates for up to three years. However, some states require accidents and violations to remain on your driving history for as long as five years. During this time, your auto insurance company may classify you as a higher-risk driver. This means that you could be charged more for your insurance than if you hadn't been ticketed or at-fault in an accident. Accidents that weren't your fault should not affect your insurance rates.

crizzy,

My son was involved in a wreck due to his speeding. Insurance went sky high. Existing carriers tend to take advantage of these situations.

I've shopped a lot and changed company. These gave me the best quotes for my 21yr. old son.

http://tinyurl.com/AutoPolicyWebInsQuote

http://tinyurl.com/AutoInsTipsQuote

Be careful - his 5.0 "earned" him a ticket and now HE PAYS the insurance.

Although the time affecting your premium varies from insurer to another, it is usually three years; and the effects tkes place from the time the body shop claims the payment for the repair to your car.

Hi