Can Someone Not on My Insurance Policy Drive My Car?
In most states across the country, auto insurance follows the vehicle and not the driver or owner of the vehicle. This means a person not covered on your auto insurance policy can usually drive your car without fear of your insurance company denying coverage. There are several exceptions to this general rule that occur when the driver in question is a member of your household or does not have a valid driver's license.
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Drivers Living With You
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Family members who are living with you such as your spouse and your dependents who are of legal driving age are required to be listed on your auto insurance policy. Any family member who is living with you but not listed on your policy may not drive your vehicle. If a non-listed household member drives your car he may not be covered by your auto insurance policy if he gets into an accident. This could leave you personally responsible for any damages caused as a result.
Drivers Not Living With You
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Those who are not members of your household may operate your vehicle with your permission and be covered by your auto insurance. This is because auto insurance follows the vehicle and not the driver. As long as your auto insurance policy is valid and up to date, there should be no problem with coverage if the driver happens to get into an accident or cause damage to other property while driving your car. If the driver gets into an accident that is not covered by your insurance policy, like running into a tree without collision coverage, you may be held liable for the damages by your insurance company.
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No Valid Driver's License
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Anyone without a valid driver's license may not legally operate a motor vehicle. Exceptions apply to student drivers with a learner's permit who are under the supervision of an experienced, licensed driver. If a person without a valid driver's license or a suspended driver's license operates your vehicle, your insurance company may have questions for you regarding the circumstances of how the person came to be driving your car. This could determine whether your insurance company chooses to extend coverage if an accident occurs. In some states, if you knowingly allow someone with a suspended or revoked driver's license to operate your vehicle, you could receive the same legal penalty as the invalid driver, which includes a fine and suspension of your license.
Personal Injury Protection
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When allowing another driver to operate your vehicle, it's a good idea to inquire if the driver has personal injury protection on his own auto insurance policy. This form of coverage can pay for the driver's medical bills resulting from an accident even if he's driving a car other than his own. This type of coverage can lessen the financial hit to your insurance policy in the event the driver causes an accident where injury occurs.
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