Auto Insurance

Accident Forgiveness

A policy feature that prevents your first at-fault accident from raising your premium at renewal.

Last reviewed: May 2026 · Editorial methodology

Definition

Accident forgiveness is a program feature offered by most major auto insurers that prevents your first at-fault accident from triggering a rate surcharge at renewal. It is either built into policies (typically after 3–5 years of clean driving) or available as a paid endorsement. Allstate, Geico, Liberty Mutual, and Progressive all offer versions of accident forgiveness. Key caveats: forgiveness typically applies to only one accident per household, it generally does not carry over if you switch insurers, and it may not apply to very serious accidents involving DUI. It is not available in California, which prohibits many such programs under Proposition 103.

Where this term matters

Auto Insurance →Insurance Companies →

Tip

Glossary definitions are educational. Always check your own policy language — insurers can define common terms differently from one another. When in doubt, request a written explanation from your agent.

Related terms

Vanishing DeductibleA feature that reduces your deductible by a set amount for each claim-free year of safe driving.PremiumThe amount you pay for insurance coverage — monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually.SR-22A certificate of financial responsibility filed by your insurer with the DMV — typically after a DUI.

Related guides

Source: Cover Forge USA editorial team|Last verified: May 2026|Methodology
Definitions are educational and may be simplified. Always refer to your policy contract and consult a licensed agent for terms that affect coverage decisions.
CF

Cover Forge USA Editorial Team

Editorial Lead

This article was researched and written by the Cover Forge USA editorial team against federal sources (NAIC, CMS, FEMA, DOL, SSA, state DOIs) and standard policy forms. Bylines organize content by topic — they do not assert individual licensure. See our editorial-policy for details.

Reviewed June 2026

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