Saving money after an accident is not likely, especially if you are with a preferred company. Because you have had an accident you are statistically a higher risk to have another accident. Generally the surcharge ranges from 15%-35% over a 3 year period. If you try to switch companies you WILL NOT qualify for preferred rates and you will receive standard rates which will usually be higher than you old rates + the surcharge. Check with your current agent to see if you can raise your deductibles. You can save 25% with some companies going from a $500 to a $1000 deductible. Check and see what they can do to help.
No! your accident record follows you for the rest of your life like a credit report.
Answer :
Once you have had an accident even if you change your insurers, your premium will be surcharged. If you have a forgiveness clause in your policy and this is the first accident you will not be charged higher. That being said it is still possible to save on auto insurances and one should be constantly on the look out for savings, since there are number of ways the premium can be saved :
1) Having higher deductible as indicated.
2) Having safety features installed - like airbags, alarm system if not already installed.
3) Decreasing the mileage - use by car pooling.
4) Online discounts
5) Placing all policies with one insurer - home and auto or all auto polices with one insurer.
The insurance rates are also dependent on the claims experience of the insurance companies so shopping around is certainly a good idea.