Will my auto insurance cover other cars? (2024 Coverage Facts)
You might be wondering, "Will my auto insurance cover other cars?" Most car insurance policies will cover other cars, with average monthly rates at $150. For example, if you cause an accident while driving another car, your liability coverage may apply, but it will cover damages or injuries you cause to others.
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Eric Stauffer
Licensed Insurance Agent
Eric Stauffer is an insurance agent and banker-turned-consumer advocate. His priority is educating individuals and families about the different types of insurance coverage. He is passionate about helping consumers find the best coverage for their budgets and personal needs. Eric is the CEO of C Street Media, a full-service marketing firm and the co-founder of ProperCents.com, a financial educat...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Nov 26, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We partner with top insurance providers. This doesn’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Nov 26, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We partner with top insurance providers. This doesn’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own.
On This Page
A common question is, “Will my auto insurance cover other cars?” Monthly rates typically hover around $150, depending on coverage types and your driving history. Understanding how liability and collision coverage apply to other vehicles is crucial for protecting yourself and others on the road.
This article explains what coverage applies to other cars and why reviewing your policy terms is essential. By understanding this, you’ll be able to find cheap car insurance rates and make sure you’re properly covered when driving, saving money and avoiding surprises.
Start saving on your auto insurance by entering your ZIP code and comparing quotes.
- Liability and collision coverage may apply when driving other cars
- Coverage for another vehicle often depends on your policy terms
- Monthly rates for auto insurance typically average around $150
Auto Insurance That Covers You in Another Car
Car insurance companies usually cover the car and anyone who drives that car with permission. In other words, a friend or family member who gets into an accident in your car will be covered under your policy.
If you are driving someone else’s car, it’s their insurance policy that covers you. That means you need to be sure the other person has insurance before you borrow their car.
Using Your Auto Insurance Policy to Cover Another Car
The owner’s insurance policy will cover you if you borrow a car and get into an accident. Your insurance may kick in as secondary coverage if the damage exceeds the coverage limit. That means that the damage must exceed the owner’s insurance limits for your coverage to apply.
Knowing that an auto insurance policy, which typically costs around $150 per month, can cover liability and collision for other vehicles is essential for drivers.
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The one exception is if you rent a car. In that case, your coverage will follow you. However, you should check with your insurance company to clarify the rules for a rented car.
A Driver Listed on the Auto Insurance Policy
Anyone listed as a driver on your auto insurance policy will be fully covered. For instance, a teen driver can use their parent or guardian’s policy for coverage if they get into an accident.
But if I want to add a driver or vehicle to my insurance, do I need to start a new policy? It’s essential to know the answer based on this. Understanding how adding drivers or vehicles works ensures you avoid unnecessary policy changes or gaps in coverage.
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UM/UIM Auto Insurance When Someone Borrows Your Vehicle
UM/UIM Auto Insurance Coverage actually has two parts. UM helps cover your injuries and damages if an uninsured driver hits you. It’s important to understand this coverage to ensure you’re fully protected in case the other driver doesn’t have insurance.
Uninsured motorist car insurance also provides coverage if you were hit by a hit-and-run driver. UIM auto insurance covers injury and damage costs when the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough coverage limits to cover the cost of your medical bills and car repairs.
For instance, if a babysitter has permission to drive your vehicle and gets into an accident with a driver who doesn’t have enough coverage limits to cover the damage to the car, your UIM covers the rest of the cost.
Adding Other Cars to Your Auto Insurance Policy
Yes, you can. However, adding more vehicles to your auto insurance policy increases your overall insurance bill. You can also add more car insurance coverage options to each vehicle.
Some insurance companies provide car insurance discounts for adding more vehicles to your policy.
Auto Insurance Costs When Adding Collision and Comprehensive Coverage
According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), full coverage car insurance is $90 a month. However, auto insurance rates tend to be much higher when you shop at various insurance companies.
So how do you get full coverage? When you add collision and comprehensive insurance, you’ll have something known as full coverage.
However, car insurance rates vary for each person and each company. The best way to secure affordable rates is to compare the top car insurance companies until you find what you need.
Let’s compare full-coverage auto insurance to liability-only insurance and see which company has the cheapest auto insurance rates in the United States.
Average Monthly Full Coverage vs. Liability-Only Auto Insurance Rates
| Insurance Company | Monthly Full Coverage Auto Insurance Rates | Monthly Liability-Only Auto Insurance Rates |
|---|---|---|
 | $318 | $162 |
 | $224 | $114 |
 | $288 | $147 |
 | $179 | $91 |
 | $398 | $203 |
 | $229 | $117 |
 | $283 | $144 |
 | $235 | $120 |
 | $287 | $147 |
 | $161 | $82 |
| Average | $260 | $133 |
USAA, Geico, and American Family are the most affordable car insurance companies on the list. If you qualify for auto insurance discounts, you can drive the prices even lower.
Auto Insurance Companies That Won’t Cover Other Cars
An auto insurance company issues a policy to you based on factors related to both you as a driver and to the car you drive. Other cars are unknown to them, and they haven’t included factors related to that car in your rates.
Your car insurance policy lists the car it covers. It also lists any drivers that use the car regularly, but that’s so that the insurance company can rate the risk of those drivers.
Each company has different rules for drivers, but most will cover someone else driving your car. This also means that if you’re driving another person’s car, their insurance will cover you. It’s worth reading about car insurance discounts to learn how these savings can impact your coverage options.
Adding a Driver to Your Auto Insurance Policy
You should add a driver to your policy if they live with you and drive your car regularly. Adding a driver to your policy allows the insurance company to adjust rates for that driver and makes sure that the driver is covered. A household driver not listed on the policy may not be covered if you don’t let the insurance company know about that driver.
Someone can drive your car even if they are not on your auto insurance policy. As long as the driver is licensed and meets all requirements of coverage, the insurance company will cover them. Bear in mind that you must give permission for the to drive, and they must use the car in accordance with the terms of the policy.
What Happens if Someone Else is Driving Your Car and Gets in an Accident
If your friend, family member, or associate is not at fault in the accident, the at-fault driver will cover the cost of damages and injuries.
But if someone else drives your car and is found at fault in an accident, your liability auto insurance coverage pays for damages and injuries to the driver who’s not at fault. This means that your rates could go up as a result of the accident, so be careful who you let drive your car.
Auto Insurance That Covers Commercial Activities
No, it doesn’t. If someone borrows your car to do rideshares or deliveries, your personal car insurance policy won’t cover any damages to your vehicle.
The person borrowing your vehicle will need to buy rideshare or commercial auto insurance. Or you can purchase commercial car insurance and add a frequent or occasional driver to your policy.
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Auto Insurance Covers the Vehicle and the Driver
Auto insurance covers the car, but in the case where you are in an at-fault accident, your liability coverage does cover the other driver’s car.
Liability auto insurance pays for the damages to other vehicles and any property affected if you’re responsible for a car accident. It’s important to understand this coverage because it helps protect your financial interests in case of an accident where you’re deemed at fault.
However, property damage liability doesn’t pay for your vehicle’s damage no matter who is driving your car.
Bodily injury liability covers the cost of medical expenses.
Your insurance company won’t pay beyond the coverage limits. In most states, the minimum auto insurance coverage limit is as follows:
- $25,000 for bodily injury of one person per accident
- $50,000 for bodily injury of multiple people per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
These coverage limits are listed as 25/50/25. But car insurance companies recommend that you carry 50/100/50 limits to avoid out-of-pocket expenses or lawsuits. However, higher coverage limits drive up auto insurance rates.
Auto Insurance Coverage That Pays for Your Car
If you want your car insurance company to cover damages to your vehicle after an authorized driver wrecks it, you’ll need more coverage.
Here’s a list of auto insurance coverage options that will pay for damages and repairs to your vehicle after an accident.
- Collision insurance
- Comprehensive insurance
Collision insurance and comprehensive insurance provide coverage even if you’re at fault in an accident. It can even cover vehicles if you give someone else permission to drive.
Collision auto insurance pays for damage to your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault.
Meanwhile, comprehensive car insurance pays for damage to your car that doesn’t involve a collision.
Auto Insurance Coverage for Other Cars
Your car insurance policy covers your vehicle, even when someone else is driving. However, your liability insurance won’t pay for damages to your car, and it only covers damage to other vehicles through liability insurance. To ensure you have sufficient coverage for any claim, it’s advisable to purchase medium to high coverage limits.
If you want your insurance to cover damage to your car in an at-fault accident, you will need to consider adding more options like full coverage auto insurance. This raises the question of whether full coverage is really full. It’s essential to read the policy details, as understanding the nuances can help you choose the right coverage for your needs.
Now that you know how auto insurance covers other cars, you’re ready to use our free online quote tool below to compare multiple companies near you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Am I covered under third-party insurance when driving another car?
If your policy includes third-party liability coverage, it may cover you when driving another car, but it depends on your insurer and the specific terms of your policy. Many standard policies do not extend third-party coverage to other vehicles unless specifically stated.
What is authorized driver insurance and how does it work?
Authorized driver insurance permits individuals designated by the policyholder to operate the insured vehicle. If someone other than the primary driver frequently uses the vehicle, they should be added to the policy to ensure adequate coverage. It’s important to understand if your auto insurance will cover interior damage, as this knowledge helps you make informed decisions about who drives your car and what is protected.
Can anyone drive my car if I have full coverage insurance?
Having full coverage doesn’t automatically mean anyone can drive your car. Most policies only cover drivers explicitly listed on the policy or individuals who occasionally borrow the car with your permission. It’s best to confirm with your insurer.
Can I add my friend’s car to my insurance policy?
You generally cannot add a friend’s car to your insurance policy unless you have an insurable interest in the vehicle, meaning you have ownership or a financial stake in it. However, you can add them as a listed driver if they frequently drive your car.
Which are the cheapest car insurance companies near me?
The cheapest car insurance companies in your area can differ based on factors like your location, driving history, and specific coverage requirements. To find the best options, it’s essential to compare auto insurance companies, as major providers such as Geico, Progressive, and State Farm usually have competitive rates. However, obtaining local quotes will provide you with a more accurate understanding of what’s available to you.
Does comprehensive car insurance allow me to drive other cars?
Comprehensive coverage typically applies only to your insured vehicle and does not cover other cars you may drive. If you want to drive other cars, you may need additional coverage like “non-owner car insurance” or make sure the vehicle’s insurance allows it.
Does USA car insurance cover me if I drive a friend’s car?
When you drive a friend’s car with their consent, their auto insurance usually offers primary coverage. Depending on your policy, your own insurance may provide secondary coverage if necessary. It’s best to check with your insurer for specific details, especially if you’re looking for cheap auto insurance or need insurance to drive other cars.
What insurance do I need to drive someone else’s car?
To drive someone else’s car, their auto insurance generally covers you as long as you have permission. However, if you drive cars you don’t own frequently, you may need a non-owner car insurance policy for added protection.
Uncover affordable auto insurance rates from the top providers by entering your ZIP code.
Can a locksmith help with car lockouts in Elsecar?
Yes, a locksmith in Elsecar can assist with car lockouts. They offer services to unlock your vehicle’s doors without causing damage, enabling you to access your car quickly and safely. If you’re considering options, remember to look for cheap car insurance companies near you, as this can help you cover various situations, including those where you might need insurance to drive any car.
Where can I find low-rate car insurance near me?
To find low-rate car insurance near you, compare quotes from several insurers online or speak with local agents. Companies like Geico, Progressive, and State Farm often provide affordable options based on location and coverage needs.
Does State Farm insurance cover me when driving someone else’s car?
State Farm generally covers you when driving someone else’s car with their permission, with the car owner’s insurance as primary. However, a State Farm auto insurance review can help clarify any specific details about your coverage.
Can someone else drive my car if I have Progressive insurance?
Yes, Progressive insurance allows other drivers to operate your vehicle if they have permission, but they may only be covered under certain conditions. Make sure the person driving has permission and that they are listed on your policy if they use the car regularly.
Can I add someone to my car insurance if they don’t live with me?
Yes, you can include someone who doesn’t reside with you on your car insurance, provided they frequently drive your vehicle. Reach out to your insurer to confirm they are appropriately listed as a driver to prevent coverage problems. This is especially important for those seeking cheap insurance cars near them, as well as for those who want to be insured to drive other cars and understand comprehensive insurance for driving different cars
Can I drive someone else’s car if I have Geico insurance?
While driving someone else’s vehicle, your insurance coverage is essential. Generally, Geico may cover you in this situation, acting as the primary coverage. If you’re looking into a Geico auto insurance review, it’s important to note that your policy could offer secondary protection depending on the circumstances. Always check your policy terms for specific details.
Can I use someone else’s car for Amazon Flex?
You can use someone else’s car for Amazon Flex, but you’ll need to ensure the vehicle’s insurance allows for commercial use. Additionally, you may need a commercial auto policy or rideshare coverage if the car is used for business purposes.
Where can I find cheap local car insurance?
Finding cheap local car insurance involves comparing multiple quotes from insurers that operate in your area. Online comparison tools or speaking with local agents from companies like Geico or State Farm can help you find budget-friendly rates.
Can Geico add a driver to my policy without my permission?
No, Geico can’t add a driver to your policy without your consent. Any changes, such as adding a new driver, require your approval to ensure proper coverage and avoid confusion. Taking the Geico defensive driving course can also help you better understand policy adjustments.
Does Safe Auto offer full coverage insurance?
Yes, Safe Auto offers full coverage insurance, which typically includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. They focus on affordable options but ensure that you review the policy to confirm the coverage you need.
Does USAA insurance cover someone else driving my car?
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Eric Stauffer
Licensed Insurance Agent
Eric Stauffer is an insurance agent and banker-turned-consumer advocate. His priority is educating individuals and families about the different types of insurance coverage. He is passionate about helping consumers find the best coverage for their budgets and personal needs. Eric is the CEO of C Street Media, a full-service marketing firm and the co-founder of ProperCents.com, a financial educat...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.