I’m driving my friends car. Am I covered under his insurance or mine?

Non-owner car insurance is designed for individuals who do not own a vehicle but occasionally drive one. If you borrow a friend's car or rent a vehicle, non-owner car insurance can provide liability coverage in the event of an accident. Additionally, if you are in the process of purchasing a car, having non-owner car insurance can prevent a lapse in coverage. Individuals who do not own a vehicle but drive one occasionally should consider purchasing non-owner car insurance.

What is Non-Owner Car Insurance?

Non-owner car insurance is meant for individuals who do not own a vehicle but may occasionally drive one. This type of coverage provides additional protection in case of an accident while driving someone else's car, such as a friend's or rental car. It can help cover expenses related to injuries or damages, but it is important to note that it is a secondary liability product, with certain limitations on coverage.

Do I Need Non-Owner Car Insurance?

Non-owner car insurance is a viable option for those who don't own a vehicle but frequently borrow or rent cars. This type of policy provides added liability coverage in case of an accident, offering peace of mind for both the non-owner driver and the vehicle's owner. It's also a good idea to consider non-owner car insurance if you don't plan to own a vehicle for a certain period but don't want a gap in your insurance coverage. This can prevent you from facing higher rates or difficulty getting coverage when you're ready to start driving again. Additionally, some states may require insurance coverage to reinstate a suspended driver's license, in which case non-owner insurance may be the only option.

What It Covers

Non-owner car insurance is a viable option for those who don't own a vehicle but frequently borrow or rent cars. This type of policy provides added liability coverage in case of an accident, offering peace of mind for both the non-owner driver and the vehicle's owner.

It's also a good idea to consider non-owner car insurance if you don't plan to own a vehicle for a certain period but don't want a gap in your insurance coverage. This can prevent you from facing higher rates or difficulty getting coverage when you're ready to start driving again. Additionally, some states may require insurance coverage to reinstate a suspended driver's license, in which case non-owner insurance may be the only option.

What It Doesn’t Cover

Non-owner car insurance is designed to provide liability coverage in case of an accident, but it does not include comprehensive or collision protection. This means that if you were to cause an accident while driving someone else's vehicle, your non-owner policy would not cover your medical expenses, those of your passengers, or damages to the vehicle.

It's worth noting that some states may require non-owner policies to include uninsured motorist and/or medical payments coverage, but this is not a standard feature and you should always check the details of your policy to see what it covers.

How do I get Non-Owner Car Insurance?

Obtaining a non-owner car insurance policy can be a bit challenging as not all insurance companies offer it. Some popular providers such as GEICO, Nationwide, State Farm, USAA, and the General do sell these policies, but options may vary by state.

A good starting point is to check if your current insurance company offers non-owner car insurance. Combining coverage with the same company that holds your renters, homeowners, or motorcycle policy could make the process easier and also qualify you for discounts.

If you don't own a car but drive occasionally, a non-owner auto insurance policy is worth considering. This coverage provides secondary liability protection, as well as peace of mind for you and the vehicle's owner every time you get behind the wheel.

It's important to note that non-owner insurance may not be necessary for everyone, particularly those who live in a household with a vehicle owner. However, if you think it's right for you, be sure to compare prices before making a purchase.