QuestionIn Texas, my niece lives with me but is not listed on my auto policy for my vehicle. She and I are joint owners of the vehicle she drives. Both of our names are on the title as the owners.
Our agreement is that she carries the insurance on this vehicle we co-own.
Unbeknownst to me, she let the insurance on the co-owned vehicle lapse due to non payment. While she was uninsured, she had a major accident (and was arrested for DWI as a result) that caused serious injury to the other driver, and was found to be at fault.
Although she is not named on my insurance policy for my vehicle, since she is a member of my family living with me would the insurance I carry on my vehicle come into effect for this accident?
AnswerHi Tim,
Unfortunately no. Your insurance policy requires that ALL licensed drivers in the household be listed on the policy. So your company would deny the claim. Further, if your neice's car was not listed on your policy there would be no coverage. Auto insurance follows the vehicle not the driver.
Since you are listed as a co-owner on the vehicle, you should also be prepared to be brought into any claims or suits that occur as a result of this situation.
Sincerely,
Richard Hixenbaugh
