Find out who has coverage under your auto insurance policy.

If you often lend your car to family and friends, then it’s important that you understand who is covered under your auto insurance.  Here is who is covered under your policy and how far this coverage extends.

Immediate Family Members

Generally, immediate family members who live under the same roof as you are covered under your auto policy.  This means that your spouse, children, and siblings are all protected and safe to operate your vehicles, so long as they have a valid driver’s license.

Extended Family and Friends

Your extended family members and friends are generally covered under your policy due to the rule of permissive use.  Permissive use essentially means that anyone driving your car is protected by your policy so long as you have given them permission to drive your car.  Just keep in mind that permissive use only applies to short and infrequent uses of your car.  If your family or friends intend to use your car for a more extended period of time, you will probably have to add them to your policy.

Boyfriend/Girlfriend

If you and your boyfriend or girlfriend live separately, they are typically protected under permissive use much like your other friends.  However, if you are living together, then this changes the situation.  In this case, you should explicitly add your boyfriend/girlfriend to your policy to ensure that they are covered.

This is who is covered by your car insurance.  If you still have questions regarding your auto coverage, then contact the experts at Steve Wilk Insurance Agency for further assistance.  Located in Illinois, check out our new office at 310 S Main Street, Suite C, Lombard, IL 60148.