Who Else Besides the Driver May Be Covered by a Car Insurance Policy?

Car insurance is not just for the driver of the vehicle. These policies can cover others too, such as the driver’s spouse or people who live with him or her. 

If you were a passenger in a car accident, determining the insurance coverage that may apply can be difficult. Consider contacting an experienced Sacramento car accident lawyer to review this information and explain your options for obtaining compensation.

People Covered by Car Insurance Policies

There are several people besides the driver who may be covered by their insurance policy:

• Additional people on the insurance policy – Liability policies cover the people who are named on the liability insurance policy.
• Spouse – Even if the spouse is not specifically named on the insurance policy, most liability insurance will cover the spouse. However, there may be some exceptions, such as if the spouse is specifically excluded or if the spouses no longer reside together.
• Other relatives – Any licensed driver who lives in the same household as the named insured who is related by blood, marriage or adoption is usually covered under the insurance policy.
• Someone with permission – Any other person who is using the vehicle with permission is usually covered by the liability policy. If they cause an accident while driving the vehicle, the insurance policy should cover the victim’s damages.

Does Coverage Follow the Car or Driver in California?

The answer to this question largely depends on the type of insurance:

• Liability coverage – Liability insurance coverage follows the driver.
• Comprehensive and collision – This type of auto insurance follows the vehicle. If someone other than the insured driver causes an accident with a covered vehicle, this insurance covers the damages.
• Med Pay – This type of insurance pays for medical expenses that a person involved in an accident incurs as a result of the accident. It pays for the person who has the coverage, regardless of who is found to be at fault for an accident.

Vehicles Covered

There may be multiple vehicles covered under a given auto insurance policy, including:

• Named vehicles – The specific vehicles listed in the liability coverage declaration will be covered. Motorcycles or utility vehicles may be covered under the policy if they are specifically named.
• Added vehicles – If the insured driver replaces a vehicle or adds another one to the insurance policy, this vehicle will be covered if the insured party notified the insurance company of this change.
• Temporary vehicles – If the insured or another member of the household had to use a temporary replacement vehicle, such as a rental car or a borrowed vehicle while a primary vehicle is being repaired, this vehicle may be covered if the named insured was driving at the time of the accident.

Contact the Arnold Law Firm for Help

If you were injured in a car accident and are unsure if you are covered by insurance, contact the Arnold Law Firm for a free consultation. We are prepared to review your situation and help you pursue compensation that may be available. 

If you choose to move forward with a claim, there are no upfront fees. You only pay us for our services if we recover compensation for you.

Call Arnold Law Firm today at (916) 777-7777 or you can fill out our free online form.