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Why did my car insurance premium go up?

Many things can affect the price of your car insurance.

We understand how frustrating it can be when your car insurance goes up. When you add a car or driver to your policy, you know there might be an increase. Unfortunately, some things are out of your control, like medical and vehicle costs or weather-related claims.

We monitor claims trends and use that data to predict future claims costs and the need for statewide increases. If we increase rates it may be because repair and replacement costs have gone up, and we have to make sure we can cover future claims. We never raise rates to make up for past claims.

Rate changes at renewal

When costs related to claims go up, we raise our rates to make sure we can cover you. These costs include:

  • Car parts and labor
  • Medical costs like ER visits and prescriptions
  • Legal fees for at-fault accidents

Who does it affect?

A statewide increase is spread across drivers in your area. We also consider your driving record. Members with accidents or tickets pay higher rates than someone who has a clean driving record.

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Homeowners rates can go up for similar reasons.

Rising costs are also pushing up home insurance premiums.

Learn about homeowners rates

Other reasons your car insurance rate changed

Loss of Discounts

The discounts you get for good driving may expire. And you may need to confirm eligibility for the Good Student Discount‍ ‍ See note 1 each year. Take some time to review your discounts.

Age of Drivers

Because teens have less experience driving and are a higher risk for accidents, they may have higher premiums. Mature drivers may also pay higher insurance rates because of an increase in the injuries they may suffer from accidents.

Tickets

Speeding tickets or other moving violations, like running a stop sign or getting a DUI, can cause a premium increase.

Accidents and Other Claims

Whether you’re at fault or not, an accident can cause your rates to go up. For example, you may see a change when you file claims for hitting an animal or damage caused by a storm.

Why did my car insurance increase during my current policy?

Your premium will only increase during your policy if you make changes.

Vehicle Change

Adding a new car with safety features and built-in technology may cost more to repair. And some cars have a higher risk of being stolen.

Change in Coverage

When you add to your auto coverage, or decrease your deductibles, your premium will likely go up.

Address Change or Adding a Driver

If you move, your new location may have a higher risk of accidents or theft. Adding drivers can also increase your risk, which could raise your premium.

Missed or Partial Payment

If you miss a payment or only pay a portion of your premium, the next amount due may be higher than usual.

Discounts and savings can help lower your car insurance premium.

SafePilot® Program

USAA SafePilot is a feature that rewards you for good driving.

Automatic Payments Discount

You could save up to 3% on your auto bill when you set up automatic payments.

Good Student Discount‍ ‍ See note 1

Save on your car insurance when a young driver on your policy keeps their grades up.

Review my discounts

Other ways to lower the cost of your car insurance

Raise Your Deductible

If you can afford to pay more for a claim, consider increasing your deductible. See your coverage and deductibles.

Review Your Coverage

You may not need rental coverage on multiple vehicles or collision insurance on an older vehicle. View your policy.

Drive Safe

Stay accident-free and you could get a discount for driving safe‍ ‍ See note 2. You may also qualify for a discount if you complete an approved defensive driving course‍ ‍ See note 3. See discounts.

Read more about car insurance.

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5 tips for better auto insurance

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Related footnotes:

  1. Discounts may not be available in all locations and are subject to change, other restrictions may apply.

  2. United Services Automobile Association discounts and savings for safe drivers may include, but are not limited to, the Premier Driver Level, Premier Driver Discount, Good Driver Discount (California) and Safe Driving program. Not available in all locations. Restrictions may apply.

  3. In some locations, discounts/credits may not be available if driver has any accidents or convictions in the past three years. Other restrictions may apply.

Related footnotes:

  1. Membership eligibility and product restrictions apply and are subject to change.

  2. Property and casualty insurance underwritten by United Services Automobile Association (USAA), USAA Casualty Insurance Company, USAA General Indemnity Company, Garrison Property and Casualty Insurance Company, NOBLR Reciprocal Exchange, based in San Antonio, Texas; USAA S.A. (Europe), and USAA S.A. UK Branch (United Kingdom) and is available only to persons eligible for property and casualty group membership. Each company has sole financial responsibility for its own products.

    Coverages subject to the terms and conditions of the policy.

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