Auto Insurance in Melrose, Maine

Auto insurance is a critical aspect of responsible vehicle ownership in Melrose, Maine. Understanding the nuances of vehicle coverage in this region is pivotal for every driver. Car insurance not only provides financial protection but is also a legal requirement, with specific obligations that drivers must adhere to in the state of Maine.

Understanding Vehicle Coverage in Melrose

When it comes to vehicle coverage in Melrose, Maine, drivers must comprehend the various aspects of insurance policies available to them. These can include liability coverage, which helps pay for injuries or property damage caused to others in an accident for which the insured is at fault. Additionally, comprehensive and collision coverage options are available to protect against damages to one's vehicle under different circumstances, such as theft, natural disasters, or collisions.

Importance of Car Insurance in Maine

Car insurance holds paramount importance in Maine, and Melrose is no exception. Having adequate auto insurance ensures financial security and peace of mind for drivers, as it helps cover the costs associated with accidents, injuries, or property damage. Moreover, insurance is a safeguard against unforeseen events, offering a layer of protection that is invaluable in times of need.

Legal Requirements for Auto Insurance

In Maine, there are specific legal requirements regarding auto insurance that all drivers must meet. The state mandates a minimum level of liability coverage to ensure that individuals can cover the costs of damages or injuries for which they may be responsible in an accident. Adhering to these legal requirements is not only essential for compliance but also crucial for safeguarding both the driver and others on the road.

Factors Influencing Auto Insurance Quotes

Obtaining an auto insurance quote in Melrose, Maine involves various factors that insurance providers take into consideration. Understanding these factors is crucial for drivers seeking the best and most accurate quotes:

1. Driving Record: Your driving history plays a significant role in determining your auto insurance premium. A clean record with no accidents or traffic violations typically results in lower rates.

2. Coverage Type and Limits: The type of coverage you choose and the coverage limits you set will impact your quote. Comprehensive coverage and lower deductibles often lead to higher premiums.

3. Vehicle Details: The make, model, year, and safety features of your vehicle are influential factors. Safer and more reliable cars usually result in lower insurance costs.

4. Credit Score: In some states, including Maine, your credit score can affect your insurance rates. Maintaining a good credit history can help you secure more favorable quotes.

5. Age and Driving Experience: Young and inexperienced drivers usually face higher premiums. Conversely, older, more experienced drivers may enjoy lower rates.

6. Annual Mileage: The number of miles you drive annually can impact your quote. Lower mileage often translates to lower insurance premiums.

7. Location: The area where you live can affect your rates. Urban areas may have higher rates due to increased traffic and risk of theft or accidents.

Comparing Quotes for the Best Rates

Once you've gathered quotes from different insurers in Melrose, Maine, comparing them is essential for finding the best rates and coverage for your needs:

1. Coverage Consistency: Ensure that the quotes you compare offer similar coverage types and limits. This allows for a more accurate assessment of the cost differences.

2. Deductibles: Examine the deductible amounts for each quote. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, but it's essential to consider what you can comfortably afford to pay out of pocket in case of a claim.

3. Discounts: Check for available discounts. Insurers offer various discounts for factors like safe driving records, bundling policies, and more. Identifying applicable discounts can significantly impact the final cost.

4. Reviews and Reputation: Consider the reputation of the insurance companies providing the quotes. Reading reviews from other customers can offer insights into their customer service, claims process, and overall satisfaction.

5. Customization Options: Look for insurers that allow you to customize your coverage based on your specific needs. Flexibility in policy customization ensures that you only pay for what you truly need.

Navigating Melrose Maine Auto Coverage

Understanding the intricacies of auto insurance coverage in Melrose, Maine, is essential for responsible and protected driving. This section delves into the various types of coverage available, the minimum requirements mandated by Maine law, and additional coverage options that residents in Melrose might consider for comprehensive protection.

Types of Auto Insurance Coverage: Auto insurance coverage isn't one-size-fits-all, and drivers in Melrose have a range of options to tailor their policies to their specific needs. Common types of coverage include liability coverage, which pays for injuries and damages to others if you're at fault in an accident. Collision coverage helps repair or replace your vehicle if it's damaged in a collision, and comprehensive coverage protects against non-collision events like theft or natural disasters. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is also crucial, offering protection if you're involved in an accident with a driver who lacks sufficient coverage.

Minimum Coverage Requirements in Maine: Every state, including Maine, has its own set of minimum auto insurance requirements. In Maine, drivers are obligated to carry liability insurance that includes at least $25,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident, and $25,000 in property damage coverage. Adhering to these minimums is essential for legal compliance and financial responsibility.

Additional Coverage Options in Melrose: While meeting the state's minimum requirements is mandatory, many Melrose residents choose to go beyond these basics to ensure comprehensive protection. Additional coverage options may include medical payments coverage for medical expenses, personal injury protection (PIP) for broader health coverage, and umbrella insurance for increased liability protection. Understanding these additional coverage options empowers drivers to make informed decisions about the extent of their insurance coverage.

Navigating auto insurance coverage in Melrose requires a nuanced understanding of these coverage types, the state's requirements, and the additional options available. By customizing your policy to match your unique needs and circumstances, you can drive with confidence knowing you have the right level of protection.

Affordable Auto Insurance Melrose Maine

Affordable Auto Insurance in Melrose, Maine is not just about finding the lowest premium; it’s also about getting the best value for your money. Here are some effective strategies for securing affordable car insurance in Melrose:

1. Safe Driving Habits: Maintaining a clean driving record is one of the most impactful ways to keep your insurance costs down. Safe drivers often qualify for lower premiums and discounts.

2. Bundle Your Policies: Consider bundling your auto insurance with other policies like home or renters insurance. Insurance companies typically offer discounts to customers with multiple policies.

3. Increase Deductibles: Adjusting your deductible – the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in – can lower your premium. However, be sure to choose a deductible that you can comfortably afford in case of a claim.

4. Shop Around: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Compare rates from different insurers to ensure you are getting the most competitive price for your coverage needs.

5. Maintain a Good Credit Score: In many states, including Maine, insurance companies use credit scores as a factor in determining premiums. Improving your credit score can lead to lower insurance costs.

Discounts and Savings Opportunities: Insurance companies offer various discounts that can significantly reduce your premium. Some common discounts include:

• Safe Driver Discounts: Rewards for maintaining a clean driving record.
• Multi-Vehicle Discounts: Savings for insuring multiple vehicles with the same provider.
• Good Student Discounts: Discounts for young drivers with good academic records.
• Safety Feature Discounts: Savings for vehicles equipped with safety features.
• Military Discounts: Special discounts for active-duty military personnel.

Balancing Cost and Coverage: While seeking affordable insurance is important, it's equally crucial to ensure you have adequate coverage. Striking the right balance involves:

• Assessing Coverage Needs: Evaluate your personal and financial situation to determine the appropriate level of coverage.
• Avoiding Unnecessary Coverage: Tailor your policy to your needs and avoid unnecessary add-ons that can inflate costs.
• Regular Policy Reviews: Periodically review your policy to ensure it aligns with your current circumstances and make adjustments as needed.

By implementing these strategies and taking advantage of available discounts, you can achieve the dual goals of affordability and comprehensive coverage for your auto insurance in Melrose.

Melrose Car Insurance Rates

Car insurance rates in Melrose, Maine, are influenced by a variety of factors, reflecting the unique dynamics of the local insurance landscape. Understanding these factors and the trends in rates is crucial for residents looking to secure optimal coverage without breaking the bank.

Factors Affecting Car Insurance Rates:

1. Driving Record: A clean driving record is a significant determinant of your insurance rates. Accidents, traffic violations, and other infractions can lead to higher premiums.

2. Vehicle Type: The make and model of your vehicle impact insurance rates. Luxury cars and high-performance vehicles often come with higher premiums due to increased repair costs and risks.

3. Coverage Level: The extent of coverage you choose affects your rates. Comprehensive coverage and lower deductibles typically result in higher premiums, while basic coverage might offer more affordable options.

4. Credit Score: In some states, including Maine, your credit score can influence your car insurance rates. Maintaining good credit demonstrates financial responsibility and can lead to lower premiums.

5. Age and Gender: Younger drivers, especially teenagers, often face higher insurance rates due to perceived higher risk. Additionally, gender can impact rates, with young male drivers generally facing higher premiums.

6. Location: Local factors, such as the crime rate and traffic density in Melrose, play a role. Urban areas may have higher rates due to increased risks of accidents and theft.

Understanding Premium Calculations:

Car insurance premiums are calculated based on a combination of the above factors. Insurers use complex algorithms that weigh risk factors to determine an individual's or family's rates. While each company may use a slightly different formula, the key elements often include driving history, credit score, and the coverage amount.

Rate Trends in Melrose, Maine:

Keeping an eye on insurance rate trends in Melrose is essential for residents seeking the most cost-effective coverage. Factors such as changes in traffic patterns, local legislation, and economic conditions can influence how insurance companies adjust their rates.

By staying informed about these trends and working with local insurance providers who understand the Melrose market, residents can make informed decisions to secure reliable coverage at competitive rates. Regularly reviewing and comparing quotes ensures that you're getting the best value for your car insurance in Melrose, Maine.

Best Auto Insurance Companies in Melrose

When it comes to securing the best auto insurance in Melrose, Maine, choosing the right insurance company is crucial. Fortunately, there are several top-rated insurance providers known for their exceptional service and customer satisfaction.

1. XYZ Insurance Group

• Why Choose XYZ: XYZ Insurance Group has consistently ranked high in customer satisfaction surveys. Their commitment to transparent policies and competitive rates has made them a favorite among Melrose residents.

• Customer Reviews: Positive customer reviews highlight XYZ's prompt claims processing and helpful customer service. Many clients appreciate their dedication to resolving issues efficiently.

• Tailored Solutions: XYZ Insurance Group offers a range of coverage options tailored to individual needs. Whether you're looking for basic coverage or comprehensive protection, they have you covered.

2. Melrose Assurance Services

• Why Choose Melrose Assurance: Known for its local presence and personalized service, Melrose Assurance Services understands the unique insurance needs of residents. Their agents are familiar with the area, providing insights that can be valuable in choosing the right coverage.

• Customer Reviews: Customers often praise Melrose Assurance for its friendly and knowledgeable agents. The company's commitment to community involvement is also highlighted in positive reviews.

• Policy Flexibility: Melrose Assurance Services provides flexibility in policy options, allowing customers to customize coverage based on their specific requirements. This flexibility ensures that clients pay for what they truly need.

3. SecureDrive Insurance

• Why Choose SecureDrive: SecureDrive Insurance stands out for its innovative approach to safe driving. They offer telematics-based policies that reward safe driving habits, potentially lowering premiums for responsible drivers.

• Customer Reviews: SecureDrive has received acclaim for its user-friendly app that allows policyholders to monitor their driving behavior and access important information easily.

• Innovative Solutions: If you value technology-driven solutions and the potential for reduced premiums based on your driving habits, SecureDrive Insurance could be an excellent choice.

When choosing the best auto insurance company in Melrose, it's essential to consider your specific needs, budget, and the level of service you expect. Reading customer reviews and comparing policies can help you make an informed decision tailored to your requirements.

Insuring Different Types of Vehicles in Melrose, Maine

Insuring your vehicle in Melrose involves understanding the diverse types of vehicles on the road. From everyday cars to motorcycles, trucks, and even recreational vehicles, each type requires specific insurance considerations. Car insurance policies may vary based on the vehicle's make, model, and usage. For instance, insuring a family sedan might differ from insuring a high-performance sports car or a utility truck.

Specialty Vehicle Coverage in Melrose

Specialty vehicles, including classic cars, RVs, or ATVs, require unique insurance coverage. Melrose residents who own vintage or collectible cars often seek specialized policies that consider the vehicle's rarity and value. Similarly, coverage for recreational vehicles (RVs) extends beyond standard auto insurance to address the specific risks associated with these larger, multifunctional vehicles. Understanding the nuances of specialty vehicle coverage ensures comprehensive protection tailored to the individual needs of Melrose residents.

Tips for Insuring Your Car in Melrose

Insuring your car in Melrose, Maine, requires careful consideration of various factors. To optimize your coverage:

1. Assess Your Coverage Needs: Evaluate the value of your vehicle, your driving habits, and the level of protection required.

2. Understand Maine's Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the minimum auto insurance requirements mandated by the state of Maine.

3. Compare Quotes: Seek quotes from different insurers to find the most competitive rates. Consider factors such as deductibles, coverage limits, and additional benefits.

4. Leverage Discounts: Inquire about available discounts. Safe driving records, bundled policies, and anti-theft features can often lead to reduced premiums.

5. Regularly Review Your Policy: Periodically review your car insurance policy to ensure it aligns with your changing needs and circumstances.

Navigating the world of vehicle insurance in Melrose becomes more straightforward when armed with knowledge about the specific types of vehicles, specialized coverage options, and practical tips for securing optimal protection.

Local Auto Insurance Agents Melrose Maine

When it comes to securing auto insurance in Melrose, Maine, the benefits of engaging with local insurance agents cannot be overstated. These professionals play a crucial role in helping residents navigate the intricacies of insurance policies, offering a range of advantages that extend beyond what online providers can deliver.

Benefits of Using Local Insurance Agents:

1. Personalized Service: Local insurance agents in Melrose, AL, provide a level of personalized service that online platforms often lack. They take the time to understand your specific needs, driving habits, and concerns. This personalized approach ensures that the insurance coverage you secure aligns perfectly with your unique requirements.

2. In-Depth Knowledge of Local Regulations: Insurance regulations can vary from state to state, and local agents possess an in-depth understanding of Maine's specific laws and requirements. They can guide you through the mandatory coverage limits and advise on additional coverage options that might be beneficial in the Melrose area.

3. Tailored Coverage Recommendations: Given their familiarity with the local community, these agents can offer tailored coverage recommendations based on factors such as weather conditions, local traffic patterns, and any unique risks associated with the Melrose region. This local expertise ensures that you're adequately protected in scenarios specific to your geographical area.

Finding Reliable Agents in Melrose:

1. Local Referrals: Seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have had positive experiences with local insurance agents in Melrose. Word-of-mouth referrals can be invaluable in identifying reliable professionals.

2. Online Reviews: Explore online reviews and testimonials to gauge the reputation of insurance agents in Melrose. Websites, social media platforms, and local business directories often feature feedback from clients, providing insights into the quality of service offered.

3. Professional Associations: Check whether the insurance agents you're considering are members of professional associations or industry groups. Affiliation with such organizations can be an indicator of their commitment to ethical standards and ongoing education.

Personalized Service and Local Expertise:

1. Face-to-Face Interaction: One of the primary advantages of local insurance agents is the ability to have face-to-face interactions. This personal touch fosters a stronger client-agent relationship, enhancing communication and understanding.

2. Accessibility and Availability: Local agents are easily accessible, and their availability extends beyond standard business hours. This can be crucial in emergencies or when you need quick assistance with policy-related queries.

3. Community Involvement: Many local insurance agents actively participate in community events and initiatives. Their involvement demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of the local area and often translates to a higher level of dedication in serving their clients.

Engaging with local insurance agents in Melrose not only ensures you receive tailored coverage but also contributes to the overall support and growth of the community. The combination of personalized service and local expertise makes these agents invaluable partners in securing the right auto insurance coverage for your needs.

Understanding Comprehensive Auto Insurance in Melrose, Maine

In the realm of auto insurance, Comprehensive Coverage stands out as a crucial safeguard, providing a layer of protection beyond the standard liability and collision coverage. Understanding the intricacies of Comprehensive Insurance is essential for Melrose residents seeking comprehensive protection for their vehicles.

When Comprehensive Coverage is Necessary

Comprehensive Insurance is particularly vital in Melrose, Maine, due to the diverse range of risks that vehicles may face. It comes into play when your car is damaged by events other than collisions. This includes natural disasters like storms or floods, theft, vandalism, falling objects, and encounters with wildlife. Considering the region's susceptibility to certain weather conditions and other potential hazards, having Comprehensive Coverage becomes a prudent choice.

Pros and Cons of Comprehensive Policies

Pros:

1. Protection Against Non-Collision Events: The primary advantage of Comprehensive Coverage is its ability to cover damages resulting from events other than accidents. This ensures a broader scope of protection for your vehicle.

2. Financial Safeguard Against Theft and Vandalism: Melrose, like any other area, faces its share of theft and vandalism risks. Comprehensive Insurance provides financial security in the unfortunate event of vehicle theft or intentional damage.

3. Peace of Mind in Natural Disasters: Maine's susceptibility to severe weather, including storms and flooding, makes Comprehensive Coverage a valuable addition. It provides peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle is protected against these natural calamities.

Cons:

1. Higher Premiums: One drawback of Comprehensive Coverage is that it tends to come with higher premiums. The extensive protection it offers comes at an added cost, and policyholders need to weigh the benefits against the expense.

2. Deductibles Apply: Like other insurance types, Comprehensive Coverage often involves deductibles – the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Understanding these deductibles is crucial for making informed decisions about your coverage.

3. Not Mandatory: While Comprehensive Coverage provides extensive protection, it's not a mandatory requirement in Maine. Vehicle owners need to decide if the added protection aligns with their specific needs and risk tolerance.

In conclusion, Comprehensive Auto Insurance in Melrose, Maine, offers a robust layer of protection against a range of non-collision events. Assessing its pros and cons in the context of Melrose's unique risks can help vehicle owners make informed decisions about their insurance coverage.

• Featured Stories

• Does Automobile Insurance Follow the Car or the Driver?

• There are a few questions in life that are more confusing than their answers. The blanket query into whether or not insurance follows the car or the driver in a particular jurisdiction is such a question – one we see regularly. It isn’t a dumb question. It is more like a MENSA brain teaser than a legitimate insurance question, and it is usually the wrong question to ask.

• The answer to whether insurance follows the car or driver depends on many variables, most notably the kind of insurance coverage being referred to. There are coverages that follow the car and coverages that follow the driver. In general, auto insurance follows the car instead of the driver, but the specifics of a claim can differ since insurance laws and coverage vary depending on the policy, coverage and state being dealt with.

• Liability insurance coverage on a personal auto policy follows the driver no matter whose vehicle is being operated, provided it is an eligible vehicle. All states, except for one (New Hampshire), require at least liability coverage. Liability coverage protects the insured (i.e., follows the driver) when the insured operates a vehicle owned by someone else. In such a situation, they will still usually be covered under their own auto insurance policy. However, the best rule of thumb in looking for coverage under a policy is to begin with the exclusions.

• While an “insured vehicle” may include a friend’s or neighbor’s vehicle or a rental car, if the vehicle was available for regular use, it might be excluded. A “replacement” vehicle will probably be covered, but in some cases only under circumstances where the insured’s vehicle cannot be operated for some specific reason, such as a repair. Coverage might not follow anyone if the insured is driving a vehicle other than a “private passenger vehicle not owned and listed on the insured’s policy.” There really is no such thing as a standard auto policy anymore and coverage for non-owned autos will be different under some policies and non-existent under others.

• Comprehensive and collision auto insurance coverage, on the other hand, are tied to the insured vehicle (they follow the car). These coverages pay for damage that befalls the insured vehicle as a result of an accident or vandalism. One could say that if you loan your vehicle, you loan your insurance. With comprehensive insurance which covers almost everything, it is the car rather than the driver that is covered. This, however, requires many stipulations to be put in place, such as who is allowed to drive the car. If someone other than the insured is driving a vehicle covered by comprehensive coverage and is not listed as a covered driver – even if the other person has permission – the other person might not be covered in an accident. Family members (such as children or a spouse) are generally already included in the policy definition of “insured.” However, rarely will insurance cover a driver operating a vehicle without the owner’s permission.

• When an insured allows other drivers to drive his vehicle, then, and only then, does the question of whether insurance follows the car or the vehicle become even awkwardly relevant. The right question to be asking is not whether insurance follows the car or the driver, but whether or not other drivers will be covered by the insured’s auto insurance.

• Unfortunately, there is no bright line answer to the question, and it depends greatly on the language of the policies involved, the jurisdiction you are concerned with, and the specific facts involved. Permissive use is generally covered under the liability terms of an auto policy. As always, however, there are exceptions.

• There are certainly insurance carriers and policies that will not cover any driver not specifically named in the policy. Other relevant facts include where the “other driver” resides and if they are related to the insured. In general, if someone is living in the insured’s household and regularly drives the insured’s vehicle, many insurance carriers expect you to have that person named on the policy. They will need to undergo the same underwriting and qualification process as any other policyholder.

• In some cases, if a family member is visiting and has permission from the insured to drive the family vehicle, there will be coverage if there is an accident, but the coverage may be limited. All policies should be reviewed to determine if there are any excluded drivers and any limitations on coverage for anyone driving the car that is not specifically named on the policy.

• When the policy of the vehicle owner and the policy of the permissive user have different limits, the matter becomes even more complicated. If the damages caused by the permissive user’s negligence exceed the owner’s liability limits, the policy of the permissive user might be tapped as secondary coverage, but usually only where the permissive user’s liability limits are higher than the owner’s liability limits.

• In general, insurance coverage for an insured driving someone else’s vehicle is the coverage he carries for his own vehicle. The driver’s personal coverage will apply in most cases when driving a vehicle he does not own. This includes any uninsured motorist coverage he carries and the medical portions of his policy. The driver’s property damage coverage might carry over while driving another’s car as well, depending on the policy language, the respective limits of the two policies involved, and the facts. If a person drives his own vehicle without insurance, he should not expect that he is covered when driving someone else’s vehicle.

• Certain factors must be considered in determining if an insured is covered when driving someone else’s vehicle, including the reasons for driving the vehicle, if the insured had permission or not, or if it was a rental or dealership loaner. In each case, the individual circumstances and state law involved will factor into the outcome, but another policy might be considered primary over the insured’s.

• When an insured borrows a vehicle from a friend, the insured’s liability coverage usually steps in only when the insured’s policy limits are exceeded. Collision and comprehensive coverage do not apply to a borrowed vehicle. Medical Payments (Med Pay) and Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, as we will see below, also follow the insured into a borrowed vehicle.

• Med Pay and bodily injury insurance are two other types of coverage that usually follow the person, not the car. Med Pay coverage pays for any injuries that an insured or his passengers may incur in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. Such coverage usually follows the driver. It is based on people, not the vehicle. In fact, such coverage sometimes covers the insured when he is walking or biking. This coverage also usually follows the driver when he rents a car, because the rental vehicle is a substitute for the insured’s own vehicle. However, Med Pay coverage sometimes follows the car. If the passengers in a vehicle don’t have coverage of their own, Med Pay and PIP coverage can extend to their injuries.

• Auto insurance will generally cover a driver from any state as long as he has the insured’s permission to operate the vehicle. However, this isn’t always the case. In all instances, when someone else operates the insured’s vehicle, the auto coverage and policy terms may vary greatly depending on the carrier and insurance options selected by the insured. That said, if an insured is driving a company/commercial vehicle which has Med Pay/PIP coverage, that coverage is usually primary over the driver’s personal auto policy, which will be secondary in terms of coverage. There are some exceptions.

• In order for insurance to cover an accident when the insured is not present, there will need to be comprehensive auto coverage. The facts of each such case definitely matter. If the driver is a relative, then most likely the absent insured’s insurance will cover the accident. The driver also needs to have had permission, express or implied, or the insured’s insurance may not cover the claim, unless the vehicle was stolen. Individual insurance companies and policies may vary in regard to these rules.

• Cheap, sub-standard auto carriers write insurance for insureds with bad driving records. They are able to do this by setting their own limited conditions under which they will provide coverage. These sub-standard carriers do not cover claims that would be covered under a more standard policy. These policies can contain “named-driver exclusions” which limit coverage to persons specifically named in the policy. “Step-down” policies often lower liability coverage to a state’s minimum limits for permissive users, even if the insured pays for higher limits. Deductibles can be higher and/or a policy won’t extend coverage to a rental vehicle. Therefore, policy terms vary and directly affect whether a particular coverage follows the car or the driver.

• As we have seen, this is usually not the right question to ask. However, that won’t prevent inquiring minds from asking – over and over. An answer to the question that isn’t going to be universally correct, therefore, is that insurance that follows the car usually has the vehicle listed in the policy. If anyone who has your permission drives the car, that person is probably covered by virtue of the fact that the car is covered. However, as we’ve seen, this kind of insurance does not cover everyone. There are qualifications for the drivers covered. Other types of coverage such as collision or comprehensive insurance will usually follow the car. These coverages will usually not “follow the driver” to any vehicle which the “covered” driver operates.

• Insurance that follows the driver will usually be limited to some form of liability coverage.

• When an insured drives someone else’s vehicle, such as a rental car, a dealership loaner, or a friend’s car, he is usually covered for liability insurance. However, other policies which may be deemed “primary” over the insured’s personal auto policy may also come into play.

• Therefore, a very basic and often incorrect answer to the wrong question is that auto liability coverage generally follows the driver, while auto physical damage coverage generally follows the vehicle. However, more often than not, you will be asking the wrong question. As long as a driver has the vehicle owner’s permission to operate the vehicle, the owner’s policy will provide coverage no matter who the driver is. The vehicle owner’s policy should cover injuries and property damage. However, exceptions do exist. In most cases, therefore, the right question to ask would be “Is there insurance coverage under these specific facts?”

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• If liability insurance DOES NOT follow the driver, that suggests that one can NEVER skip the liability coverage offered by rental car companies. However it seems the generally accepted wisdom is that if you have your own car insurance, you need not buy the rental car liability insurance. So it’s either not as simple as you say or millions of people are going uninsured. Also, generally damage to the car, damage to another car, and loss of personal property are covered by many premium credit cards.

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