When an insured vehicle is involved in an accident and the at-fault driver is not a listed driver on the policy, several factors determine if and how the car owner can make a claim. Typically, car insurance policies cover accidents involving the insured vehicle, regardless of who is driving at the time, provided the driver had the owner’s permission. However, the specifics can vary significantly based on the policy’s terms, the insurer, the state regulations, and whether the driver falls under any excluded driver provisions.
If the at-fault driver in the accident was operating the vehicle with the owner’s permission but was not explicitly excluded from the policy, then the vehicle owner can usually file a claim under the insurance’s liability coverage. It’s also possible for the owner’s collision coverage to address damages to their vehicle. However, if the policy explicitly states that the driver is excluded or limits coverage to listed drivers only, and the driver is not included, the insurer might deny the claim.
It’s vital to review the specific language and terms of the insurance policy in question and possibly consult with the insurer directly or seek legal advice to fully understand the implications and possible outcomes. Additionally, if you are the car owner, reporting the incident promptly and providing full details will help avoid complications in the claims process.
