What is accident forgiveness?

Key takeaways

• Accident forgiveness isn't automatically included in an auto insurance policy.
• Most insurance companies require drivers to qualify for accident forgiveness coverage.
• Many insurance companies, including Liberty Mutual, offer accident forgiveness coverage.

Nobody plans to get into a car accident, but it can happen. Whether the cause is a momentary lapse in judgment or being at the wrong place at the wrong time, your first at-fault accident can feel like a costly mistake, especially when it comes to your auto insurance premium. According to The Zebra, an auto insurance rate may be raised by an average of $845 per year due to an at-fault accident.

The good news is that car insurance with accident forgiveness is a benefit offered by many auto insurance providers that gives drivers a second chance at keeping their rates steady after a first-time mishap.

We'll break down what car insurance with accident forgiveness is, if it's worth adding onto your policy, and how to get coverage.

What exactly is accident forgiveness?

Accident forgiveness is a feature offered by select car insurance providers, such as Liberty Mutual, that helps protect your premium from rising after your first at-fault accident. If you qualify, this added coverage acts as a safety net, so that one mistake doesn't end up costing you more in auto insurance premiums.

Do I need accident forgiveness?

Deciding whether you need the cushion of accident forgiveness depends on a few personal factors.

You might benefit from accident forgiveness if…

• You're a new driver or don't have many years behind the wheel.
• You drive frequently or have a long commute (more time on the road increases the chance of getting into an accident).
• You've never had an at-fault accident and want to safeguard your clean driving record.
• You're worried that one slip-up could increase your auto insurance rates.
• You share your car with someone who's less experienced, such as a teenage driver.

On the other hand, you might not need (or want) accident forgiveness if…

• You rarely drive your car.
• You mostly use public transportation to get around.
• You're on a tight budget and don't want to add any extra onto your monthly insurance bill.
• You have a history of auto accidents, so it's not worth the extra cost as most insurers will only forgive your first at-fault incident.

What exactly is accident forgiveness?

Getting accident forgiveness added to your auto insurance policy isn't automatic. While every insurer is different, there are four common steps to take when securing accident forgiveness.

1. Contact your current insurance provider or check their website to see if they offer accident forgiveness coverage.
2. Find out if and when you may qualify. Most insurers have specific requirements for accident forgiveness coverage. In most cases, you'll typically need to have a clean driving record for several years, be a current or long-term customer, meet a minimum age, and have a certain amount of driving experience under your belt.
3. Ask when coverage can be added onto your policy. For example, can you add it immediately, upon renewal, or only when signing up for auto insurance coverage.
4. Know what's included. Before deciding on whether or not to add coverage, make sure you understand the cost, benefits, guidelines, and limits of the coverage so there are no surprises.

Does Liberty Mutual have accident forgiveness?

Yes! Liberty Mutual Insurance offers accident forgiveness as an optional add-on to its auto insurance policies. If you qualify (typically by maintaining a clean driving record for five consecutive years) this coverage ensures your premium won't increase after your first at-fault accident.

Liberty Mutual's accident forgiveness coverage is designed to give drivers peace of mind, acting as a cushion against the financial impact of a single mistake. Once enrolled, your rate stays protected even if you file a claim, and the forgiveness kicks in at renewal, so you won't see a spike in your monthly payments.