You should also file a claim if you’re involved in an accident while driving a rental car. Your first step, however, should be to contact the rental car company. Dispelling the Misconception: Claims Don’t Always Raise Your Premiums Yes, it’s true that you will often see a premium increase when you file a claim—sometimes a significant one. But the fact that they always will is generally false. (Note: I say “generally” because there are companies out there that will increase premiums for any claim, even ones you could theoretically pay for with whatever change is in your pocket.) Each insurance company handles situations differently, so it's always important to check with your agent, broker, or insurer itself to see whether your premium will be affected. That said, the following are common instances where premiums are often not increased or are increased only minimally: • If you've been a great driver and have a minor accident, especially if this after being with the same insurance company for a long time. • In general, minor accidents are less likely to affect your premium than major ones. So are damages caused by something out of your control, such as natural disasters. • If you live in an at-fault state and the accident is 100% the other driver’s fault. • Exception #1: This doesn’t hold true in no-fault states because insurance companies pretty much always have to pay something if there’s an accident. • Exception #2: It also may not apply if it was a hit-and-run
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