Answers to Important Auto Insurance Questions
There are a lot of things everyone in California should know about auto insurance, but it doesn't have to be a complicated subject. The following questions and answers should clear up a few things and make it easier for anyone whether it is their first foray into the world of car insurance or the renewal of an old policy.
Q: What happens when someone gets into an accident in a borrowed car? Whose insurance would apply – the owner of the car or the driver of the car?
A: The car is the focus in cases such as this, so the insurance of the owner of the car would have to take any claims. The liability insurance of the driver, however, should pay for any costs that exceed the limits of the car owner's insurance.
Q: What happens when a child goes to college with a car of one of the parents? Are they still under the coverage of the original insurance policy held by the parent?
A: The answer for this can actually vary with the insurance company, so they are the ones to ask. Give the insurance provider a call and see if the child can remain under the policy before he or she leaves for school. It is best to be sure and avoid any complications should a claim have to be made.
Q: Does anyone actually need ‘gap' insurance?
A: Gap insurance is only for car owners who are still making payments on the car who still owe more than the actual value of the vehicle. No one else needs to have it.
Q: Is there a way to cover a teenager without a big jump in insurance premiums?
A: This is something that's difficult to avoid. Teenagers are just a bigger risk to insurance companies, and premiums are assessed based on risk. If the policy is for an expensive car, that raises the rates still further. It may be cheaper over all to get the teenager a cheaper car, which will be cheaper to insure.
Q: If the insurance company does not know the policy holder has a new car, is the policy invalid?
A: The insurance company needs to know when there is a change of vehicle or a new vehicle to be added to the policy. Sometimes, any new vehicles are automatically covered, but there may be changes in rate depending upon the type of vehicle that was purchased.
Q: Will auto insurance cover a rental car should the policy holder go on vacation?
A: Some auto insurance providers do in fact cover car rentals, but be sure before leaving on that trip, since there may be qualifications or certain rules to follow. Calling up the insurance company beforehand can clear things up rather quickly and avoid hassles further down the road.