What actually raises your premium

Insurers price risk, so anything that statistically predicts future claims can move your premium — some factors more than others.

At-fault accidents and tickets

A single at-fault accident or a speeding ticket is one of the most direct premium increases, and the effect typically lasts three to five years before it stops being factored in, depending on the insurer and state.

Where you live

Zip code affects premiums through local accident rates, theft rates, and repair costs — two people with identical driving records can see noticeably different quotes based on address alone.

Credit-based insurance scores

In most states, insurers can factor in a credit-based insurance score, which studies have correlated with claims likelihood. This means paying bills on time can indirectly help your auto premium — though a handful of states restrict or ban this practice.

Coverage gaps

A lapse in continuous coverage — even a short one between policies — often raises your rate when you next apply, since insurers read a gap as a signal of higher risk.

Vehicle-specific factors

Repair cost, theft rate, and safety ratings for your specific make and model all factor in — which is why two similarly priced cars can carry noticeably different premiums.

A note on the current climate

Updated August 2026: auto premiums broadly have continued trending upward in recent years, driven partly by higher vehicle repair costs and more expensive replacement parts and sensors in newer cars — a trend worth keeping in mind when comparing a quote against what you remember paying a few years ago.