Home » Car Insurance 101 – Commons Questions » Does my insurance cover a borrowed car?

Written by:

Marissa Hayes

Insurance Writer & Expert

Marissa Hayes is a technical editor and contributing writer. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in history, and she was the editor of the literary magazine, The Bluestone Review.

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Written by Marissa Hayes

Insurance Writer & Expert

Reviewed by:

Daniel Walker

Licensed Insurance Agent

Daniel Walker graduated with a BS in Administrative Management in 2005 and has run his family’s insurance agency, FCI Agency, for over 15 years (BBB A+). He is licensed as an insurance agent to write property and casualty insurance, including home, life, auto, umbrella, and dwelling fire insurance. He’s also been featured on sites like Reviews.com and Safeco. To ensure our content is accura...

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Reviewed by Daniel Walker

Licensed Insurance Agent

UPDATED: Dec 4, 2023

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If the borrowed car has insurance, you’re covered. If it doesn’t, then you’re not covered under your basic car insurance policy. Your car insurance policy covers your car, not you. That is, unless you have uninsured motorist coverage and the accident that happens is not your fault.

As for lending your car to someone, the car stays insured but you should be forewarned that lending your insured car should not be taken lightly. If an accident occurs and you have no choice but to file a claim, your premium will probably increase because your risk factor increases.

In addition, if the insurance company will investigate the driver using your car and if found having a bad driver’s record, could hold you liable for damages.  You could also be facing criminal charges for allowing a high risk driver on the road.

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