Source: Mid-Columbia Insurance
Lending your car to a friend or family member? Understanding permissive use in your car insurance policy is crucial for protecting both you and your vehicle.
Understanding Permissive Use
Permissive use is a policy feature that extends your car insurance coverage to other drivers using your vehicle with your permission. This can be explicit permission (directly giving keys) or implied permission (like a family member moving your car from the driveway).
Key Coverage Points
- Permitted drivers receive the same coverage limits as you
- Coverage includes liability, collision, and comprehensive (if you have them)
- Not all insurance policies include permissive use
- Regular drivers need to be added as named drivers
When to Use Permissive Use vs. Named Drivers
Permissive Use Works For:
- Occasional borrowers (12 or fewer times per year)
- One-time situations
- Emergency circumstances
Named Drivers Required For:
- Family members living in your household
- Regular carpoolers
- Anyone who drives your car weekly
- Teenage drivers in your home
Important Considerations
- Your insurance acts as primary coverage when others drive your car
- Non-permitted drivers aren’t covered
- Regular drivers must be added to your policy
- Always verify coverage before lending your vehicle
Get Professional Guidance
Mid-Columbia Insurance, serving Washington State since 1995, offers expert guidance on permissive use coverage. Their bilingual agents can help you understand your policy and find the right coverage for your needs.
Contact Mid-Columbia Insurance today today at (509)783-5600 for a quote or to review your current coverage. As an independent agency working with multiple insurance providers, they’ll help ensure you have the right protection for any situation.