Car accidents are stressful enough on their own—but long after the cars are repaired and the injuries heal, many drivers worry about one important question:
“How long does a car accident stay on my record?”
The answer isn’t as simple as one number. In the United States, a car accident can appear on different “records” for different lengths of time, including your driving record, insurance history, criminal record (in rare cases), and even background checks.
This guide breaks everything down in plain English, so everyday drivers can understand their situation, and law practices can use it as a reliable educational resource for clients.
What Does “Your Record” Actually Mean?
Before we talk about timelines, it’s important to understand what record we’re talking about. A car accident doesn’t live in just one place.
An accident may appear on:
- Your DMV driving record
- Your auto insurance record
- Police or court records
- Criminal record (only in serious cases)
- Background checks (limited situations)
Each of these has different rules and time limits.
How Long Does a Car Accident Stay on Your Driving Record?
Your driving record is maintained by your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency.
Typical Timeframe: 3 to 10 Years
In most states, a car accident stays on your driving record for:
- 3–5 years for minor accidents
- 5–10 years for serious or at-fault accidents
- 10+ years for DUI-related crashes or fatalities
What Affects the Length?
The length depends on:
- Whether the accident was your fault
- If there were injuries or deaths
- Whether a traffic ticket was issued
- The state you live in
For example:
- A minor fender-bender with no ticket may disappear faster.
- An at-fault accident with injuries can stay much longer.
Does a Not-At-Fault Accident Stay on Your Record?
Yes—but usually for a shorter time.
Even if the accident was not your fault, it may still appear on your driving record temporarily. However:
- It usually does not add points
- It has less impact on insurance
- It may be removed earlier than at-fault accidents
Some states automatically remove not-at-fault accidents after a few years.
How Long Does a Car Accident Stay on Your Insurance Record?
Your insurance record is separate from your DMV record.
Typical Timeframe: 3 to 7 Years
Most auto insurance companies look back:
- 3 years for standard rate calculations
- 5 years for serious accidents
- 7 years for major violations (DUI, reckless driving)
Why Insurance Records Matter More
Even if an accident drops off your DMV record, insurance companies may still see it and use it to:
- Raise your premiums
- Deny discounts
- Decide whether to renew your policy
This is why some drivers are surprised when rates stay high even after their DMV record looks clean.
How Long Do Accidents Affect Insurance Rates?
In general:
- Minor at-fault accident: 3–5 years
- Major accident with injuries: 5+ years
- DUI-related accident: Up to 10 years
The biggest rate increase usually happens in the first 1–3 years, then gradually decreases.
Do Car Accidents Show Up on Criminal Records?
Most car accidents do NOT create a criminal record.
However, an accident can appear on a criminal record if it involved:
- DUI or DWI
- Reckless driving
- Hit and run
- Vehicular assault or manslaughter
Criminal Record Timeline
- Misdemeanors: 5–7 years (or longer)
- Felonies: May stay permanently
These cases are handled in criminal court, not traffic court.
How Long Does a Police Accident Report Exist?
Police accident reports are typically kept for:
- 3 to 10 years, depending on the state
- Longer if the accident involved serious injury or death
These reports can be accessed by:
- Insurance companies
- Attorneys
- Courts
- Sometimes employers (limited situations)
Do Car Accidents Show Up on Background Checks?
Usually, no.
Standard employment background checks do not show regular car accidents.
However, accidents may appear if:
- You’re applying for a driving-based job (CDL, delivery, rideshare)
- The accident involved criminal charges
- The employer requests a motor vehicle report (MVR)
For commercial drivers, accident history is taken much more seriously.
State-by-State Differences (Why Location Matters)
Every state sets its own rules.
Examples:
- Some states use a point system that keeps accidents longer.
- Others remove records faster if you complete traffic school.
- Some states allow you to request record corrections or expungement.
This is why law firms often advise clients to check their specific state DMV rules.
Can You Remove an Accident from Your Record Early?
Sometimes—yes.
Possible Options Include:
- Traffic school or defensive driving courses
- Record correction (if the accident was misreported)
- Point reduction programs
- Expungement or sealing (rare, state-specific)
These options are more likely for:
- First-time drivers
- Minor accidents
- Clean driving histories
An attorney can help determine eligibility.
How Long Does an Accident Affect a Teen or New Driver?
For young drivers, accidents often have a bigger impact.
- Insurance penalties last longer
- Rates increase more sharply
- Some states keep records longer for probationary licenses
Parents should review insurance policies carefully after a teen accident.
Why Law Firms Should Educate Clients on This Topic
From a legal practice perspective, this topic matters because:
- Clients often misunderstand “record” types
- Insurance disputes depend on lookback periods
- Accident history impacts settlement value
- Long-term consequences affect legal strategy
Clear education builds trust and reduces confusion.
Quick Timeline Summary
| Record Type | Typical Duration |
| Driving record (DMV) | 3–10 years |
| Insurance record | 3–7 years |
| Police report | 3–10 years |
| Criminal record | 5 years to permanent |
| Background check | Only in limited cases |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does an accident stay on your record forever?
No. Most accidents eventually fall off, but serious or criminal cases may last much longer.
Can insurance see accidents older than 5 years?
Usually no, but some insurers keep internal records longer.
Will a no-fault accident raise my insurance?
Sometimes, but the increase is usually smaller or temporary.
Does switching insurance companies erase my accident history?
No. Accident history follows the driver, not the insurer.
Can employers see my accident history?
Only if they run a motor vehicle report or if the accident involved criminal charges.
Final Thoughts
So, how long does a car accident stay on your record?
The honest answer is:
👉 It depends on the type of record, the severity of the accident, and your state’s laws.
For most drivers, accidents fade away within 3 to 7 years, but serious cases can last much longer—especially when insurance or criminal law is involved.
Understanding these timelines helps drivers:
- Plan financially
- Improve driving habits
- Avoid surprises
And for law practices, explaining these rules clearly can make a major difference in client satisfaction and case outcomes.
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