Should I be listed on my dad’s auto insurance policy in Washington D.C to be covered if an accident occurs?

An auto insurance policy in Washington D.C. will automatically cover the primary policy holder as well as any other drivers specifically listed on the policy. If you just got your driver’s license and are still living at home with your parents, you probably should make sure that your dad has you listed as a possible driver on his auto policy. That way you will be covered if you borrow the car and happen to get into an accident.

Most auto policies automatically cover other family members living in the same household as the driver and owner of the vehicle being insured. Automobile insurance actually covers the vehicle and as long as you are either listed on the policy or have been given permission to drive the car, you are covered.

So as long as your mother, sister and brother are licensed drivers, they are covered when driving the family car. You are covered on your dad’s policy if you go away to college and then come back to stay with your family during the summer break. If you get into an accident on your way back from a Washington D.C. nightclub, you are covered, but you will probably have to hear a lecture from your dad. You are not covered if your permanent residence is in another state and you only come home for Thanksgiving dinner.

Your father may decide not to list you as a driver because your age or driving record will make his premium double. However, if you get into an accident, depending on the circumstances, you may still be covered. For more information on whether or not you are covered on your dad’s auto policy, please give us a call. An independent agent will be happy to review the policy and make sure you are covered and it is safe to drive your dad’s car.