Car insurance policies are primarily designed to cover the policyholder in case of an accident concerning the vehicle. There are some cases where other people may be covered while operating your vehicle, however. These are permissible drivers. Essentially anyone who you allow to operate the vehicle and has a valid license are considered permissible drivers and should be covered while driving your vehicle. Drivers do not have to be listed on your policy to be covered, but adding people to your insurance policy can further guarantee their coverage while operating the vehicle. Just keep in mind that adding someone to your policy can affect your car insurance rates, as the listed driver’s driving record and credit score may affect how likely you are to file a claim on your car insurance policy.

Excluded Drivers

Unfortunately, not everyone is covered by your car insurance policy. There are some drivers who are listed as excluded drivers. This is a list of people who will not be covered if you give them permission to operate your vehicle. Excluded drivers are typically individuals who live in your home that are considered high risk, such as those with low credit scores or poor driving records. If you give an excluded driver permission to operate the vehicle, they will not be covered.

Excluded drivers are generally listed on your policy from the beginning. In fact, some insurers will require drivers in your household before they will provide you a policy.

Keep in mind that allowing an excluded driver to operate your vehicle can cause a canceled policy by your insurer.

Does Car Insurance Cover Thieves?

So what happens if someone takes your vehicle without permission? Will they have coverage under your auto insurance policy?

Thieves can be covered by your insurance as long as you have the proper coverage. If your vehicle is stolen, any damage and injuries the thief causes should be covered under your comprehensive and collision coverage. This insurance covers damages to your vehicle caused by fire, wind, hail, lightning, smoke, falling object, theft, vandalism and more.

This also applies if an excluded driver steals your vehicle. As long as the vehicle is reported stolen and permission is not given by the policyholder, theft should be covered under your policy. Be sure to speak with your insurance agent about how much coverage your vehicle needs.

Also Read: Is New York a Fault State for Car Accidents?

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