Driving and owning a car are not the same thing. Many drivers do not own cars, but still need to drive. Usually, standard auto insurance covers both vehicles and the drivers who own them. However, if a driver doesn’t own a car, he or she might not need the full coverage of a standard policy.
Drivers who don’t own a car and don't drive regularly might be able to invest in non-owners auto insurance. However, only certain drivers can benefit from this coverage.
Who Can Use Non-Owners Coverage?
Non-owners auto insurance occupies a special position in the world of vehicle coverage. More or less, it covers drivers who don’t own vehicles or drive regularly. Still, when they do drive, these individuals will need car insurance coverage. Most states require them to have it. Non-owners coverage might benefit:
- Drivers who only drive occasionally, but want to avoid insurance coverage lapses. Remember, some insurers view a lapse in auto coverage as a sign that a driver is a high-risk operator. Obtaining non-owners coverage, even when you don’t own a car, can help you avoid this lapse.
- Operators who rent or borrow vehicles might need this coverage. At times, a rental company will provide renters with the coverage they need for this car. However, prices for this coverage might impact the renter’s final bill. A stand-alone policy might save a frequent renter money down the road.
- Those who must show proof of insurance to get a license or reinstate coverage following a suspension. Some states require new drivers to get this coverage before they get their license. Other states may require drivers to get coverage when they get an SR-22 or FR-44 requirement.
Still, non-owners coverage might not benefit some drivers. For example, you might not own the car you drive every day, but your spouse, parent or other relation might. In this case, you probably won’t qualify for non-owners auto insurance because you drive the car frequently, and someone to whom you relate closely owns it. That person will likely have to list you as a driver on their own policy. This is one way you can get coverage when you drive a car owned by someone else.
It may seem hard to determine if you qualify for non-owners coverage. If you fall into one of these categories, contact an auto insurance provider. They can help you determine if this coverage is right for you.
For more information, our website can offer tips about auto coverage or you can call our Stuart office at 772-287-3366 or our Tequesta office at 561-745-8894.