When you make a car insurance claim, it can affect your premiums and record for a certain period. Understanding how long claims stay on your car insurance and their impact can help you plan better and avoid unnecessary financial burdens.
In this guide, we cover all the essential details, including timelines, types of claims, and ways to minimize the impact on your insurance.
How Long Do Car Insurance Claims Stay on Record?
Typically, car insurance claims remain on your record for 3 to 5 years in the UK. The exact duration varies depending on the type of claim, your insurer’s policies, and the severity of the incident. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Type of Claim | Time on Record |
|---|---|
| Accidents (At-fault) | 3 – 5 years |
| Accidents (Not at-fault) | 3 years |
| Windscreen Claims | Usually 3 years |
| Theft Claims | 3 – 5 years |
| Fire Damage Claims | 3 – 5 years |
| Personal Injury Claims | 3 – 5 years |
Most insurers consider claims within the last 5 years when calculating premiums, so even older claims could influence pricing decisions.
How Do Insurance Claims Affect Premiums?
Filing a claim can impact your premium rates depending on various factors:
- At-fault claims usually result in higher premiums.
- Not-at-fault claims may still slightly increase your premium as insurers assess overall risk.
- Multiple claims within a short period can significantly increase your insurance costs.
- Protected No Claims Discount (NCD) may reduce the impact of claims on your renewal price.
How Can You Check If a Claim Is Still on Your Record?
If you’re unsure about past claims affecting your policy, you can:
- Contact your insurer – They can provide claim details and how they impact your premium.
- Request a Claims and Underwriting Exchange (CUE) report – The UK’s Claims and Underwriting Exchange (CUE) maintains a database of insurance claims. You can request a copy via the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB).
- Check your policy documents – Previous claim details may be listed in renewal notices or policy statements.
Can You Remove a Claim From Your Record?
No, you cannot remove a claim before its expiry period. However, there are ways to reduce its impact:
- Use a No Claims Bonus (NCB) Protection – This prevents loss of your NCB even after a claim.
- Pay for minor repairs out of pocket – If the damage is minor, settling without a claim avoids premium hikes.
- Compare insurance quotes – Shopping around can help find insurers that weigh past claims differently.
Do All Insurers Treat Claims the Same Way?
No, different insurers have different policies regarding past claims. Some factors include:
- The weight given to at-fault vs. not-at-fault claims.
- Discounts or penalties applied based on the type of claim.
- Policies regarding No Claims Discount (NCD) protection.
It’s always advisable to compare policies when switching insurers to ensure you get the best deal.
Final Thoughts
Car insurance claims stay on your record for 3 to 5 years and can impact your premiums. While you cannot erase a claim before its expiry, managing claims wisely can reduce their long-term effects. By understanding how insurers assess claims, checking your records, and taking preventive measures, you can keep your insurance costs in check.
If you’ve recently filed a claim, it’s always worth exploring different insurers and seeing if there are ways to lower your premiums. Smart insurance management ensures you get the best coverage at the most reasonable price.
