Think Twice Before Submitting Insurance Claims Repeatedly

I was driving down a dark country road this year when a deer darted across the road, collided with the front end of my SUV, and ended up wedged under the wheel. The repairs cost nearly $10,000, and after paying my $500 deductible, I filed a claim. A few months later, on the same stretch of road, another deer jumped out in front of me. Aside from feeling déjà vu, the damage was estimated at another $5,000. This time, I decided to pay for it privately to avoid risking a rate increase or non-renewal — especially since we had recent glass claims as well.

As an insurance agent for 20 years, I want homeowners and drivers to understand how their claims history — not just one incident — can affect premiums and even eligibility for renewal. Here’s how insurers evaluate claims, why many encourage customers to “save” their policies for significant losses, and how you can protect yourself.

Why Claims History Matters More Than Ever

Insurance companies have faced a sharp rise in both the frequency and severity of claims, especially catastrophic ones. A 2025 Verisk Analytics report found that U.S. property-insurance claim volume rose 36% in 2024, driven by a staggering 113% increase in catastrophe claims. Another study by LexisNexis Risk Solutions reported that, from 2021 to 2024, claim severity increased 33%, with catastrophic events making up 42% of all property claims by year’s end.

What does this mean for policyholders? Each time an insurer pays out — particularly on larger claims — it influences their assessment of your future risk. Insurers increasingly consider claim frequency even more than claim severity. Filing even multiple small claims, such as repeated towing or glass claims, can signal higher long-term risk. As a result, the likelihood of premium increases, suspended coverage options, or non-renewal rises accordingly.

Why Glass Claims Are Becoming a Bigger Issue

Many people are surprised when I advise them against filing another windshield replacement claim if they’ve had several in recent years. Modern windshields often contain sensors and ADAS (advanced driver-assistance systems) technology, which can push repair costs far higher than the traditional $200-$300 glass replacement of years past.

A single glass-only comprehensive claim generally won’t raise your rates, since these claims are typically considered not-at-fault. However, when they become frequent, insurers may treat them similarly to other minor but repetitive claims that indicate higher exposure.

To control rising costs, some carriers have introduced separate glass deductibles or modified glass-coverage rules.

Rising Premiums and Fewer Renewals Nationwide

According to J.D. Power’s 2025 U.S. Home Insurance Study, nearly 47% of homeowners saw premium increases last year — the highest rate of insurer-initiated hikes in more than a decade. Even homeowners with no claims experienced increases due to inflation, higher construction costs, and more weather-driven losses.

Between 2021 and 2024, 95% of U.S. ZIP codes saw premium increases, with more than one-third experiencing jumps of over 30%.

New York State is no exception. Nearly all insurers statewide were approved for substantial increases in 2024. On the auto side, New Yorkers pay far more than the national average — driven heavily by New York City–based claims. As of late 2025, full-coverage auto insurance in New York averages about $2,924 annually, while minimum-coverage policies average around $1,666.

What This Means for You — Smart Ways to Protect Yourself

Use Your Insurance Wisely

When possible, pay out of pocket for smaller losses rather than filing a claim. This helps maintain a clean claims history, improving your odds of keeping premiums stable and renewal risk low.

Know Your Policy and Review It Often

As your life changes — home renovations, new vehicles, teenage drivers — your insurance needs evolve. Review your coverage regularly with your agent and ask about available discounts.

Be Proactive with Maintenance

Proper upkeep can prevent many common claims. Updated roofs, stormproof windows, back-up sump pumps, and cleared gutters reduce your risk of damage and may help protect you from future premium increases.

When You File a Claim, Make It Count

For major losses such as fire, wind, hail, theft, or large vehicle repairs, call your agent first. I’m here to help you understand potential claim impacts and to start the claims process when appropriate. Always keep records, photos, and receipts to support your claim.

Local Support for Western New York Policyholders

Here in Western New York, we feel the same pressures affecting the national insurance market — rising repair costs, inflation, and climate-related damage. As your local State Farm agent, my priority is helping you navigate these changes, choose the right coverage, and use your policy responsibly.

Insurance is designed to protect you when disaster strikes, but it works best as a safety net — not a first line of defense. With good maintenance, smart decision-making, and open communication with your agent, you can keep your family protected without paying more than necessary.

If you’d like help reviewing your current coverage, I’d be happy to sit down with you and discuss your options. Call my office anytime at 716-630-6666.