If driving a borrowed car that the owner has no insurance on, will my insurance policy keep me from getting a ticket?
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While my vehicle is in the shop, a friend offered to let me borrow his truck for a day or two. The only catch is that he has no insurance. I spoke to my insurance agent and my policy will cover me if we get into an accident, but what I would like to know is that if a cop pulls me over and asks to see proof of insurance, does the insurance have to be for the driver or for that specific vehicle? Basically, would I get a ticket for no-insurance if I was pulled over, since my insurance cards shows one car and I am driving another?”
Asked January 20, 2016
1 Answer
Insurance for vehicles other than your own is a tricky business. You must be prepared to offer information to any officer who pulls you over, and you cannot get that information unless you go back to your agent for help. This article will quickly detail the information you need so that there is no trouble with an officer in the future.
An Officer Will Not Do Research For You
You cannot expect a police officer to do research for you. Most officers will assume that you are lying to get out of a ticket, and you must do the research in advance. Presenting proper information immediately during a traffic stop is helpful. You may not want to carry these things in your wallet or bag, but this information will help you get out of a bad situation.
Contact Your Agent
You should contact your agent again to ask about coverage for other vehicles. Ask your insurance agent to verify that you are covered in other vehicles that do not have insurance, potential consequences for you if you are involved in an accident, and allow your agent to give you all information for your policy. Your agent can write up a memo stating that you are covered under your policy in all vehicles you drive. The letter must show your policy number, and it would be wise to have the letter notarized just in case.
Carry The Information On Your Person
You must fold up the letter to fit in your wallet or your bag. Make a copy of your insurance card to carry on your person at all times, and you may present this information to any officer who pulls you over. You have done all the work for the officer, and the officer may investigate using the letter. Presenting police officers with this information will solve your problem in most cases, but you must be prepared to contact your agent or answer questions about the paperwork.
You are allowed to drive a vehicle that is not your own under your own insurance, but you must prepare yourself for the drive. Acquire a memo from your agent that explains the parameters of your policy, and keep a copy of your insurance card with you at all times. These two documents together will prevent an awkward situation if you are ever pulled over.
Answered January 21, 2016 by TreyFevaa