We all borrow our friends’ or family members’ vehicles from time to time. However, many people remain unsure of what happens if they get into a car accident while driving a borrowed vehicle. Learn what may happen in this situation.
Will Someone Else’s Car Insurance Cover Me?
It’s a common belief that car insurance policies only cover a specific driver. However, this belief is wrong. In reality, car insurance policies follow the insured vehicle, not the policyholder.
So, if you get into a car accident while driving a friend’s car, for example, you should be covered as long as the vehicle’s owner has a car insurance policy. The vehicle owner’s car insurance policy would be the primary coverage that would apply in this situation. Then, if necessary, your own car insurance policy may pay for additional coverage.
There are two situations in which you may not be covered in this situation, including:
- You are specifically excluded from the vehicle owner’s insurance policy.
- You borrowed the car without the vehicle owner’s permission.
It’s important to remember that since Indiana is an “at-fault” insurance state, your insurance policy or the vehicle owner’s insurance policy would only need to pay for damages if you caused the accident. If the other driver involved in the crash is found to be at-fault, then their car insurance policy would pay for any damages.
Injured in a Car Accident? We’re Here to Help
If you have been injured in a car accident, our experienced attorneys at Wagner Reese can protect your rights while you focus on recovering from your injuries. We have a strong track record of success protecting plaintiffs’ rights, and we’re here to do the same for you.
Contact Wagner Reese at (888) 204-8440 to schedule a free consultation.