Auto insurance can protect you financially if you are involved in an accident. It helps pay for medical bills and property damage, so you are not left with the full cost. However, things can become complicated when someone else is driving your vehicle. Several important factors determine whether another driver will be covered under your auto insurance policy.

Permissive Use

Many insurance companies offer permissive use coverage. This means your insurance may cover an accident if someone who is not listed on your policy drives your car with your permission. The driver must typically be an occasional driver, not someone who regularly operates the vehicle. Because this can vary by insurer, it is important to speak with an agent at Janis-Shunta Insurance to understand how your specific policy handles permissive use.

Excluded Drivers

Policyholders in Muskegon, MI often have the option to exclude specific household members from their auto insurance policy. These individuals may be old enough to drive, but are intentionally listed as excluded to help lower monthly premiums, which is common when teen drivers live in the home. However, if an excluded driver operates the vehicle and causes an accident, the policy will not provide coverage.

Non-Permissive Use

Insurance policies do not cover damage caused when someone uses your car without permission. For example, if a teen driver takes the car without asking, is not listed on the policy, and gets into an accident, the incident will not be covered. Whether the individual had permission and whether they are listed on the policy are key factors in determining coverage.

The agents at Janis-Shunta Insurance can help you understand your policy, including whether permissive use applies and how excluded drivers may affect your coverage. Contact us today for more information. We proudly serve the Muskegon, MI area.