Yes, if your auto insurance policy includes comprehensive and collision coverage it should cover other drivers if an accident occurs.
Coverage for damage to your car when someone else drives it
If you carry comprehensive and collision coverage on your New Jersey car insurance policy, it should typically cover damage that your car sustains even when another driver was behind the wheel at the time of the accident. However, you should confirm that your policy covers “permissive use”.
What is permissive use in car insurance?
Permissive use allows other non-listed or non-household drivers to operate your vehicle.
Permitting some drivers to operate your car may void some coverage in your policy; however, if a person has been specifically excluded as a driver on your policy, damage to your vehicle may not be covered under your policy.
Most policies do cover permissive use, but there are some carriers who exclude this coverage.
When car insurance would not cover other drivers in NJ
There are a few instances where insurance providers may not cover someone else driving your car including:
- If your permissive user plans to use the vehicle for business use or as a rideshare/delivery driver.
- If your permissive user intentionally causes damage or harm to another.
- If the vehicle is damaged while racing or stunting.
- If your permissive user is unlicensed, or if their license has been suspended or revoked.
- If your permissive user is a regular operator of the vehicle and you fail to report them as a driver on your insurance.
- If the permissive user does not cooperate with an insurance provider’s claims investigation.
Liability coverage for permitted drivers who get in an accident
All listed drivers on your household policy, as well as drivers who you allow to drive your car on a temporary basis (assuming they are not expressly excluded from your policy) will generally be covered under your liability insurance coverage.
The insurance coverage of the permitted driver can come into play in some instances, though. If you let another person drive your car and they cause an accident that involves injury and/or damage to someone else’s property, that driver’s liability coverage could kick in as secondary coverage when the claim exceeds your limits.
Need help? We’re here for you.
Phone
Online
Home insurance for Connecticut, Massachusetts, new Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania
Agent
This page is for informational purposes only. Actual coverage may vary and is subject to the policy issued by your insurer. Restrictions and limitations may apply. Review your policy and consult a licensed insurance professional to learn more about your coverage.