If your vehicle ends up in an accident and you aren’t driving, your first thoughts will center on insurance. In particular, if the driver of your vehicle is a friend as opposed to a family member, you’ll be especially worried.
So, what’s the outcome of such situations? Does insurance cover all related damage and injuries?
Our auto insurance team in Rochester Hills, MI provides insight below.
Car Accidents When Friends are Behind the Wheel
Auto insurance coverage through Guy Hurley McNeil has the potential to apply if the person driving your car has your consent to do so. As long as the individual in question is a legal driver, meaning of age and licensed, he or she can drive your vehicle for personal use.
However, that individual cannot drive your vehicle for purposes other than personal use such as operating a business or a rideshare service. In such instances, your auto insurance is unlikely to apply.
Additional Exceptions of Note
Aside from using your vehicle for non-personal reasons, if the driver in question is listed as an excluded driver on the policy, insurance will not apply. Moreover, if you did not give the driver permission, your insurance might not apply.
Will the Driver’s Insurance Apply?
If the individual driving your vehicle has his or her own auto insurance, that insurance is unlikely to apply. In such situations, your auto insurance is still likely to be the main payer of all resulting damages that occur as a result of the operation of the motor vehicle.
However, the insurance policy of that driver is considered secondary, meaning it might kick in to cover certain medical expenses or personal injury costs. That policy might also provide additional coverage beyond your car insurance.
As an example, if the total cost of resulting damage caused by the crash is greater than policy limits, the secondary insurance policy might be applicable.
Guy Hurley McNeil is on Your Side
If you are in the market for auto insurance, contact us today. You can reach our insurance professionals by dialing 586-731-1180. We serve the entirety of the Rochester Hills, MI area and beyond.
