Can i get insurance after an accident

Yes — you can get car insurance after an accident. However, be aware: if the accident happened before your policy began, the new insurance will not cover that past accident. The coverage applies only to future incidents. 

What Happens When You Try to Get Insurance After an Accident

Insurance Won’t Cover Past Accidents

Insurance works to protect from future risks. If you buy insurance after an accident, any damage or injuries from that accident are excluded — the policy can’t be retroactive. 

You Can Get Insured Going Forward

Once you have a new policy, it’s valid for any new accidents or damage that happen after the effective date.

Expect Higher Premiums or Limited Coverage

Because insurers may view you as higher risk after an accident (especially if it was your fault or you were uninsured at the time), your premiums may go up, or coverage might be restricted. 

What to Do to Get Insurance After an Accident — the Right Way

• Contact several insurers — some may still accept you even after an accident or lapse.

• Be honest about your history (accidents, insurance gaps) — transparency avoids claim denial or policy cancellation.

• Prepare for possibly higher premiums or stricter terms.

• Once insured — drive safely and avoid further claims to rebuild a clean record over time.

• Ensure continuous coverage — avoid gaps because insurers may charge more if there have been periods without insurance.

FAQ

Can insurance cover a crash that happened before I bought the policy?
No — policies cover only events that happen after the coverage becomes effective.

Can I get insurance if I was uninsured at the time of accident?
Yes — you can buy a policy after the accident, but it won’t cover that prior crash. Future coverage is possible.

Will my premiums be higher if I get insurance after an accident?
Likely yes — insurers view past accidents or gaps in coverage as higher risk, which may raise your rates.

Can I get full coverage (liability, collision, comprehensive) after an accident?
Depends on insurer and your record. You may get liability-only at first, or full coverage with higher premium or restrictions.

Is it illegal to try ‘backdating’ a policy to cover a past accident?
Yes — trying to buy insurance and pretend it started before an accident is considered fraud. Insurers will deny such claims. 

Conclusion

You can certainly get car insurance after an accident — but remember: the new policy will not cover the accident that already happened. It will only protect you from future events. Because you now carry a higher risk profile, expect potentially higher premiums or limited policy terms. Still — having insurance is crucial for legality and protection going forward.

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