Car insurance can get tricky when you are driving someone else’s car. Normally, your insurance policy covers liability claims because of an accident caused by you while driving a car that is not your own. But what happens when you drive an uninsured car on your insurance? The answer depends on many factors, but generally your own insurance should cover you when you drive an uninsured car as an insured driver.
Your Coverage in an Uninsured Car
When you take out an auto insurance policy, there are several types of coverage that can be included with your policy. Each type is treated differently depending on the facts and factors involved in your accident.
Liability coverage is used to cover the medical expenses or damage repair bills of other people if you are found to be at fault for a car accident. This type of coverage is assigned to the driver. So, if you carry liability insurance on your own car insurance policy, you should be covered, even if you cause an accident in someone else’s uninsured car.
Comprehensive and collision coverage can be a different story. These optional coverages give you added protection, and if your own vehicle is financed or leased you are probably required to carry these two coverages.
Comprehensive protects you from damage caused by something other than a car accident. This includes things like vandalism and theft, or if a tree falls on your car.
Collision coverage is used to pay for damages when you hit another car or object such as a tree.
These coverages both go with the vehicle though, not the person. So, if you cause an accident in an uninsured car, the owner is likely out of luck for getting your insurance company to pay for damages.
Who is Covered?
Insurance companies are somewhat strict when it comes to who is covered on your policy. Usually, those living in your household are covered. You should list them on your policy to be sure. And if you have specifically excluded a driver from your policy, maybe because they have a bad record and drive your rates up, they will never be covered by your policy.
Be sure you understand your policy details before you drive an uninsured car, or before you start lending your own car out to others. Anytime there is an accident, and especially if the driver and the car have mismatched insurance, there will be questions. When sharing cars, make sure you have permission and the coverage you need.
If you’re ready to look at a new car insurance policy, the InsuranceWins form is a great place to start. All you have to do is fill in a few details and you’ll get quotes for liability, comprehensive, collision, an any other type of coverage you need to feel protected. And, you’ll save money!
