Am I Insured If I Drive Someone Else’s Car? 

Illinois law mandates that all motor vehicles operated or parked on Illinois roadways be insured. The minimum auto insurance coverage required includes the following:

• Bodily injury liability may help cover costs associated with injuries or death that you or another driver cause while driving your car.
• Property damage liability may help cover damage that you or someone driving your car with your permission may cause to another person’s property.

The specifics of these requirements can change without notice, so it’s essential to ensure your policy meets or exceeds these minimums. Doing so aligns with legal stipulations and provides a foundational layer of financial protection in the event of an accident.

Coverage When Driving Another Person’s Car

Generally, auto insurance policies are designed to cover the car, not necessarily the individual driver. This means that if you have permission to drive someone else’s car, the car owner’s insurance may help cover damages in the event of an accident. However, there are nuances and limits to this coverage:

• Primary vs. secondary insurance—The car owner’s insurance typically serves as the primary insurance, potentially covering damages up to the policy’s limits. If the costs exceed these limits, the driver’s insurance may serve as secondary coverage, potentially covering additional expenses.
• Permission is essential—For coverage to apply, the car owner must have given you explicit consent to use the vehicle. Unauthorized use complicates matters significantly.
• Policy details matter—Insurance policies and coverage can vary widely. Some policies are more restrictive about who can drive the insured vehicle.

It’s also worth noting that if you’re driving a car that is not yours on a regular basis, being added to the owner’s policy as an occasional driver may be wise. This can help ensure coverage is more clearly defined.

Impact on Insurance Costs

Driving someone else’s car can affect insurance costs, particularly if an accident occurs. If you’re found at fault in an accident while driving another person’s vehicle, it may affect the car owner’s insurance premiums. Additionally, if your insurance is used as secondary coverage, your premiums could also be impacted.

Contact Us

Whether you’re insured when driving someone else’s car has a multifaceted answer. It depends on the specifics of the insurance policies involved and the circumstances of the vehicle’s use. Having a reliable insurance partner is crucial to ensure you’re adequately covered, whether driving your car or someone else’s.

V Financial, LLC in Rolling Meadows , Illinois, is here to assist with all your auto insurance needs. Contact us today to discuss your insurance options or to get a quote tailored to your unique situation.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.