How it works
- How you get it: some insurers include it in the policy, often for long-time customers. Others sell it as an endorsement for an extra charge.
- Who qualifies: many insurers require a clean driving record for several years and a set number of years as a customer. Some count tickets too, so one speeding ticket could affect eligibility.
- What it covers: some policies forgive one accident and others more than one. Some start right away, while others require a clean record first.
- What it does not do: the accident stays on your driving record. If you switch companies, the new insurer may count the "forgiven" accident when it prices your policy.
A policy that includes the feature can cost more, so compare that extra cost with what an accident surcharge might add, and read the policy wording carefully.
Related terms
Sources
- Massachusetts Division of Insurance, Accident Forgiveness definition, eligibility, effect of switching insurers
- NAIC, The Time to Get Smart about Accident Forgiveness how insurers offer it and its cost
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