Auto Insurance Claims: Driver not on policy, car insurance policy, legal decision

Question
Hi Bennie, my sister borrowed my car and got into an accident.  She's not on my policy nor any other car insurance policy.  I live in Massachusetts and have Full Cover Insurance.  Is my car still covered ? What about her ? She was mildly injured.

Answer
Hi Juan
There are two cases where your sister would not be covered.
1.  If you have a 'restricted' Named Driver Only policy
   Then every driver must be named on the policy or all
   coverage is denied.
2.  If your sister lives with you and you have not to
   bothered to notify your insurance company that she
   is in the household, they could deny coverage.

If your policy is not a named driver only type policy and your sister does not reside with you, then your policy should definitely apply.

No matter which case applies, you should make a report to your insurance company and allow them to make the legal decision as to whether or not your policy applies.

I trust this is of help.
Your feedback by rating my answer will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
Bennie
San Francisco Bay Area 11-08-07 12:01 PM PST