Can someone else drive my car?

There may be times in life when we need to let someone borrow our car, but we’re hesitant to allow it because we don't know if we can, or if we should. We might think about things like “what if they’re in an accident, would insurance cover my car?” We might wonder:

• Can my babysitter use my car to drive my kids to the swimming pool?
• Can my friend drive my car?
• Can my brother-in-law or other family member borrow my car for the weekend?
• Can I drive someone else's car?
• Will my friend's insurance cover any damages I cause while driving their vehicle?
• Do occasional drivers need to be added to my policy?

At the heart of it, we want to know, "If we give them permission and they get into an accident, is it covered by my insurance? Is it legal for someone to drive my car who is not on my insurance policy?"

If they are a legal driver and you occasionally allow them to drive your car for personal use by providing your verbal consent, coverage will typically apply. But, borrowing a car under other circumstances may not be as clear-cut. It depends on your insurer and your particular policy. For example, coverage rules and regulations may be different if the driver lives in your household and could, or should, be listed as a named insured on your policy, but is not; or, if the driver is listed on your policy as excluded. Discuss these more complicated situations with your insurance agent and claim representative.

Whose insurance will cover the damages?

Typically, even if the person driving your car has their own insurance, your insurance will be the primary payer for damages caused by operation of your vehicle if the driver is found legally at fault. The driver's insurance is secondary and may cover some personal injury or medical expenses. It may also provide coverage in excess of your insurance coverage, if the cost of damages caused by your vehicle is higher than your policy limits.

Things to consider before allowing someone to drive your vehicle

After checking with your insurance agent and confirming the insurance coverages, there are other factors to think about. Allowing somebody to borrow your car is different than asking you for a cup of sugar. Check that the driver has a valid driver’s license and no outstanding warrants. Additionally, lending your vehicle to someone with a poor driving record such as several accidents or a DUI, could have liability implications for you. Simply put, you could be found liable if you lend your car to someone you know is not a safe driver.

If someone is going to be driving your vehicle for an extended period of time, such as a nanny, consider adding them to your policy as an additional driver. Discuss the deductibles and coverages with your new driver and discuss any questions or concerns with your agent when you add them to your coverage.

How do I know what is covered?

There can be many details in a claim which are governed by insurance laws of the state, the policy, and amount of coverage. Because the policy terms and state laws can vary widely, always contact your insurance agent before loaning out your car, or other motor vehicle, such as: a motorcycle, boat, personal watercraft, snowmobile, ATV or RV.

As with anything else, use good judgment and common sense. Consider the liability you may be opening yourself and your auto policy up to before you decide to lend your car.