After a claim for which you are responsible, strategies exist to limit the penalty: amicable settlement, dispute, cautious driving, changing insurers. KT Assur&Bank supports you in regaining a favorable bonus.
A at-fault accident can quickly increase your car insurance premium, even if it's the first one in years. But all is not lost: certain strategies and best practices can help limit the damage. In this article, we explain how to optimize your no-claims bonus after an accident , to quickly regain a more favorable coefficient.
What is the bonus-malus system and how does an accident impact it?
The bonus-malus system, or reduction-increase coefficient (CRM), is a mechanism for adjusting your insurance premium based on your driving behavior.
- No at-fault claims in one year: your coefficient is multiplied by 0.95, which is a 5% reduction.
- In the event of a claim for which you are responsible: the coefficient is increased, often by a ratio of +25% depending on the contract.
- The maximum penalty depends on the companies, and there is a regulatory threshold defined by law.
Therefore, a claim that you are responsible for will increase your annual premium, sometimes for several years, if no effort towards exemplary driving is visible.
Strategies to limit the negative effects of a disaster
1. Prevent before having to repair
- Report the incident quickly, with all the necessary information (report, photos).
- Limit liability or contest the degree of liability if possible.
- Negotiate coverage with the insurer by providing evidence (witnesses, videos)
2. Choose "amicable settlement" when possible.
If the incident is of low severity and the cost is modest, it may be more strategic for the insured to settle the claim outside of insurance, in order to avoid triggering a penalty.
3. Wait for a good year without any claims to regain the bonus.
The bonus is repaid gradually — one year of driving without an accident allows you to multiply the current coefficient by 0.95.
4. Consider changing insurers
Some companies are more tolerant towards profiles that have had an accident, and may offer more favorable conditions when changing policies.
5. Add security devices
Installing a tracking device, an alert system, onboard cameras, or braking or assistance equipment can work in your favor when it comes to pricing.
Concrete examples of optimization
| Situation | What has been done | Possible result |
|---|---|---|
| Minor accident < 500 € | Coverage outside of insurance | no penalty triggered |
| Shared responsibility accident | dispute over the percentage | reduced contribution, moderate penalty |
| Termination after a claim | comparison of quotes with other insurers | sometimes a more competitive rate despite a claim |
| Good driving record 3 years after accident. | calm, zero accidents | rebuild a favorable bonus |
Why should you call on KT Assur&Bank to help you?
At KT Assur&Bank , we offer:
- A personalized analysis of your claim file, to identify options for dispute or amicable settlement.
- Presenting solutions from insurers who are tolerant and can accept past accident profiles.
- Practical advice to accelerate the return to a favorable bonus.
- Assistance with changing insurers or negotiating premiums.
Conclusion
A responsible accident doesn't necessarily condemn you to a lasting premium increase. With the right strategies—quick action, amicable settlement, possible recourse, good driving practices—you can limit the penalty or gradually recover your bonus. With KT Assur&Bank , you have an expert partner to guide you through this process.