Non Vehicle Owner Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

As a non-vehicle owner, you might think that auto insurance is not something you need to worry about. However, if you frequently borrow, rent, or drive someone else’s car, it’s important to understand what non-owner car insurance is and why you might need it.

What is Non-Owner Car Insurance?

Non-owner car insurance is a type of liability insurance that provides coverage to drivers who do not own a car. It typically covers bodily injury and property damage that you may cause while driving someone else’s car. This type of insurance is also known as non-driver car insurance, non-owners car insurance, and non-owners liability insurance.

Non-owner car insurance is different from traditional auto insurance in that it does not cover any damages to the car that you’re driving. It only covers damages to other people and their property if you get into an accident while driving someone else’s car.

Who Needs Non-Owner Car Insurance?

If you don’t own a car but frequently drive someone else’s car, you may need non-owner car insurance. Here are a few scenarios where non-owner car insurance might be a good idea:

Scenario
Why Non-Owner Car Insurance is Needed
You borrow a friend’s car for a road trip.
If you get into an accident, your friend’s liability insurance may not be enough to cover all damages. Non-owner car insurance can provide additional liability coverage.
You frequently rent cars for work or travel.
Rental car companies typically offer liability coverage, but it may not be enough to cover all damages. Non-owner car insurance can provide extra coverage and save you money on rental car insurance.
You use a car-sharing service like Zipcar or Car2Go.
Car-sharing services typically offer liability coverage, but it may not be enough to cover all damages. Non-owner car insurance can provide extra coverage and save you money on car-sharing insurance.

What Does Non-Owner Car Insurance Cover?

Non-owner car insurance typically covers the following:

  • Bodily injury liability: This covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages if you injure someone while driving someone else’s car.
  • Property damage liability: This covers damages to someone else’s property if you get into an accident while driving someone else’s car.
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: This covers you if you get into an accident with a driver who does not have enough insurance to cover your damages.

What is Not Covered by Non-Owner Car Insurance?

Non-owner car insurance typically does not cover the following:

  • Damages to the car you’re driving: Non-owner car insurance only covers damages to other people and their property. It does not cover damages to the car you’re driving.
  • Physical injuries: Non-owner car insurance only covers liability, which means it only covers damages to other people and their property. It does not cover your own medical expenses if you’re injured in an accident.
  • Personal belongings: Non-owner car insurance does not cover any personal belongings that are damaged or stolen from the car you’re driving.

How Much Does Non-Owner Car Insurance Cost?

The cost of non-owner car insurance varies depending on several factors, including:

  • Your driving history
  • Your age and gender
  • The state you live in
  • The amount of liability coverage you need

On average, non-owner car insurance costs between $200 and $500 per year. However, the cost can be higher or lower depending on your individual circumstances.

How to Get Non-Owner Car Insurance?

Getting non-owner car insurance is similar to getting traditional auto insurance. You can contact an insurance agent or company to get a quote and purchase a policy. Make sure to shop around and compare quotes from different companies to find the best coverage at the lowest price.

FAQ

Do I Need Non-Owner Car Insurance if I Rent Cars?

If you frequently rent cars, non-owner car insurance can provide extra liability coverage and save you money on rental car insurance. However, rental car companies typically offer liability coverage, so it’s not always necessary. Check your rental car agreement and consult with an insurance agent to determine if non-owner car insurance is right for you.

Can I Get Non-Owner Car Insurance if I Have a DUI?

Most insurance companies will require you to have a clean driving record to qualify for non-owner car insurance. If you have a DUI on your record, you may have difficulty getting coverage or may need to pay higher premiums.

Can I Add Additional Coverage to My Non-Owner Car Insurance Policy?

Yes, you can add additional coverage to your non-owner car insurance policy, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or personal injury protection. Talk to your insurance agent to determine what additional coverage options are available and how much they will cost.

What Happens if I Get into an Accident While Driving Someone Else’s Car?

If you get into an accident while driving someone else’s car, your non-owner car insurance will typically provide liability coverage for damages to other people and their property. However, if the damages exceed your policy limits, you may be personally responsible for the remaining costs.

How Much Liability Coverage Do I Need?

The amount of liability coverage you need depends on several factors, including the state you live in and your individual circumstances. Most states require a minimum amount of liability coverage, but it’s a good idea to purchase more coverage if you can afford it. Consult with an insurance agent to determine how much liability coverage is appropriate for your situation.

Is Non-Owner Car Insurance Required by Law?

Non-owner car insurance is not required by law in most states. However, if you frequently drive someone else’s car, it’s a good idea to have this type of insurance to protect yourself and others in case of an accident.

Conclusion

Non-owner car insurance is an important type of insurance for anyone who frequently drives someone else’s car. It provides liability coverage for damages to other people and their property if you get into an accident while driving someone else’s car. If you think you might need non-owner car insurance, contact an insurance agent to get a quote and purchase a policy.