When a friend needs to borrow your car, it can seem like a no-brainer. What are friends for? They’ll just drive to the store and back, no big deal.
Things can turn for the worst if this friend gets into an accident in your car. Depending on the severity of the accident, you could be the one left with covering the bill.
It can be difficult to understand exactly how your insurance will cover an accident you weren’t involved in. Before letting anyone drive your car, be sure to understand how your auto insurance policy covers this situation.
Does Insurance Cover Another Driver Besides Myself?
Insurance doesn’t cover people; it covers the vehicle. To a certain extent, it doesn’t matter who is driving the car. If the car listed in your policy is at fault in an accident, then your insurance will be the one to cover damages.
In the case that your car is at fault for the accident, then your policy may help you cover vehicle damage (collision coverage) and personal damage (liability coverage) for the other party.
If the person driving your car is injured, your auto liability coverage would not cover their medical bills. Though if you have collision coverage, this can help pay for vehicle repairs. If you have medical payment coverage, then your automobile insurance policy may provide some coverage for your friend’s medical bills.
Permissive Driver
A permissive driver is someone not listed on your auto insurance policy that you have given permission to drive your vehicle. Some policies cover these types of drivers, but it’s not always the case.
If damages in the accident exceed your limit, then the permissive driver’s insurance will have to get involved. They will be partly responsible for covering the outstanding damages.
When Will Insurance Not Get Involved?
There are a few situations where your auto insurance may not be able to cover the damages related to an accident.
• Non-Permissive Driver: If you did not give permission to someone to drive your car, if they steal your vehicle for example, then your insurance is not responsible to cover damages for the accident. The difficult part is proving that the driver did not have your permission.
• Excluded Drivers: On your insurance policy, you can specifically list people in your household who are not allowed to drive your car. These can be underaged drivers or people at high risk. If they use your car and get into an accident, your insurance company may not get involved.
Understand Your Policy
It might seem like the best option is to not let a friend drive your car. This may be an impractical solution. Sometimes you can’t drive your car yourself, or your friend is in a tough situation and only you can help.
Rather than preventing everyone from driving your car, it’s easier to get a better understanding of your auto insurance plan. Speak with your insurance provider to break down what is covered in your policy. Discuss making changes if you feel the need to.
By understanding your auto insurance policy, you can plan for accidents.
Consult A Trusted Attorney
If someone driving your car gets into an accident, you’ll need sound legal advice on your side. Call on the experienced auto accident attorneys at Epperly & Follis. Epperly & Follis are available for a free consultation to review your automobile insurance coverages.
With decades of experience in personal injury law, we have the dedication and expertise to defend your case in court. We’ll meet with you to understand your situation and find the best solution for you.