Many factors determine whether your insurance rates increase after a car crash, such as your driving record and level of fault in the collision. The severity of the accident and the claim’s cost will also factor into your rates possibly increasing. If your insurer does raise your rates, it will likely remain at that level for at least three years. However, some companies offer accident forgiveness, which may prevent your costs from increasing. Policies vary from insurer to insurer, so you should ask a representative after a car accident.