Car Insurance Assistance Needed
I recently purchased a car in my hometown and will be driving it to my base in two weeks. After completing tech school, the dealer is handling the car registration for me in Michigan. However, my base is in Illinois, and I’ll be living there due to active duty. Can I keep my car insured in Michigan during this time? Where should I insure the vehicle? Is there any provision for military personnel that allows us not to insure the car in the state where we are stationed? My driver’s license is still registered at my Michigan address. Thank you for your help!
It sounds like you have a few questions regarding car insurance while you are on active duty. Here are some points to consider:
Insurance Location: Generally, you should insure your car in the state where it is registered. Since your car is being registered in Michigan, you can purchase insurance from a Michigan provider.
Active Duty Exception: As a member of the military, you may have some flexibility when it comes to vehicle registration and insurance. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides certain protections, which might allow you to maintain your Michigan registration without needing to register your car again in Illinois.
Best Practice: It’s a good idea to contact your insurance provider to explain your situation. They can guide you on the best way to ensure you are compliant with both Michigan and Illinois laws. They can also help you understand what coverage you need while you’re stationed in Illinois.
Driver’s License: Since your driver’s license is still registered at your Michigan address, this may help you in keeping your insurance there, but it is always wise to check with your local DMV to clarify the regulations concerning military personnel.
Consult with Military Legal Assistance: If you’re unsure or have specific concerns, consider reaching out to a legal assistance office on your base. They can provide guidance on your obligations and rights under state law.
Make sure to keep documentation of your military orders and any communications you have regarding your registration and insurance, as this could be helpful in clarifying your status and obligations.