Get answers to some of our most important commonly asked questions that will help you make good decisions here. Each section is grouped by insurance type.
What can I do to lower my auto premium?
Be sure to talk to your insurance agent about available discounts on car or auto insurance such as: multi-car, renewal, claim-free, student discounts, driver training, defense driver course, anti-lock brakes, air bags, anti-theft devices, and auto/home discounts. Ask how much you can save by increasing your deductibles.
Am I covered if I drive someone else’s vehicle?
The coverage provided varies from state to state, and you should consult with your insurance agent for details. Generally, you are covered only for liability to the third parties unless the owner is a resident of your household, or the vehicle is furnished for your regular use. In many states, you are not covered for physical damage to the borrowed vehicle. Any coverage provided is over and above the collectible coverage provided by the owner of the vehicle.
When renting a vehicle, should I buy the insurance coverage offered by the car rental company?
If you have auto insurance protection on a personal vehicle that has full coverage and rental reimbursement, you may not need to buy extra insurance. However, be sure to verify this with your insurance company.
If my car is in the shop and I need to rent a temporary vehicle, is the rental car covered on my auto insurance policy?
Rental car coverage is only for vehicles with rental reimbursement coverage that have been in an accident; not for cars experiencing mechanical failure.
When my child gets his/her driver’s license must I add him/her to my insurance policy?
Yes. All licensed drivers living in the household need to be listed on the auto policy unless they have their own auto insurance elsewhere.
Who is usually covered under an auto insurance liability policy?
An auto insurance liability policy usually covers the following people:
- Named insured – the person or persons named in the policy, no matter what car they are driving.
- Spouse – even if the spouse of the named insured is not named on a policy, liability insurance almost always covers him or her, unless the couple does not live together.
- Other relative – anyone living in the household with the named insured related to the insured by blood, marriage or adoption, usually including a legal ward or foster child.
- Anyone driving the insured vehicle with permission – someone who steals the car is not covered.