Insurance policies aren’t always straightforward, and the rules around who’s covered while driving a vehicle can be confusing. Maybe you have borrowed a friend’s car for the day, or perhaps you need to use a family member’s vehicle in an emergency. When an accident happens and you are behind the wheel of someone else’s car, knowing when you are covered can mean the difference between a resolved claim and a financial nightmare.
When Are You Covered as an Unlisted Driver?
You do not always need to be listed on an insurance policy to drive a vehicle legally and with coverage. Texas follows the permissive use doctrine, which generally allows unlisted drivers to operate a vehicle with the owner’s permission. If the owner gives you explicit consent to drive their car, their insurance policy typically extends coverage to you as the driver.
This coverage often comes with limitations. While you may be covered under the owner’s policy, that coverage might only extend to the minimum liability limits required by Texas law. This means if you cause significant damage while driving the car, you could face out-of-pocket costs beyond what the insurance covers.
Many insurance policies automatically extend coverage to immediate family members living in the same household, even if they are not explicitly named on the policy. This typically includes spouses, children, and other relatives sharing the same address. That said, insurance companies differ in how they handle household coverage, so make sure to verify what the policy covers before assuming you’re protected.
Situations Where You May Not Be Covered
Insurance companies allow policyholders to exclude specific people—often high-risk drivers—to reduce their premiums. If you have been explicitly excluded from someone’s insurance policy, you won’t be covered under any circumstances when driving that vehicle.
Additionally, permissive use only applies to occasional use of a car. Insurance companies expect policyholders to list anyone who regularly drives their vehicle. If you routinely use someone else’s car and aren’t added to their policy, the insurance company may deny coverage if you are involved in an accident.
What to Do If You’re in an Accident While Driving Someone Else’s Car
When you’re driving a car you don’t own and get into an accident, the stakes can feel high. Here’s what you need to do to protect your rights:
- Contact law enforcement and emergency services immediately.
- Document the accident scene = by taking photographs of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange information with all parties involved, including names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers.
- Notify the vehicle owner as soon as possible so they can contact their insurance company and report the accident.
- Avoid making statements about fault or liability to anyone except your attorney.
- Keep detailed records of all medical treatment, expenses, and any communications with insurance companies.
- Contact an attorney before speaking with any insurance representatives.
Speak with a Texas Car Accident Attorney About Your Accident Claim
If you are involved in an accident where insurance coverage is unclear or disputed, you need immediate legal guidance. These complications can quickly turn a straightforward claim into a complex web of denied coverage, blame, and unnecessary stress.
A McAllen car accident lawyer can untangle these issues and pursue your rightful compensation from every available source. Schedule a free consultation today and learn about your options for moving forward.
