If you drive often but don’t own a car, you might wonder if you still need car insurance. That’s where non-owner car insurance comes in. This type of policy provides liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage, protecting you if you’re responsible for an accident. Keep in mind, non-owner car insurance doesn’t cover the vehicle you’re driving or your own injuries. On the plus side, it’s usually more affordable than standard car insurance.
Can You Get Car Insurance Without Owning a Car?
Yes! A non-owner car insurance policy gives you liability protection when you drive someone else’s vehicle. This is particularly useful if the car owner’s insurance limits are too low or if you’re not eligible for coverage under their policy. In some cases, insurance companies may deny coverage based on specific rules or circumstances surrounding the accident.
Many non-owner policies also include additional protections like medical payments, personal injury protection, and uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. To learn more about these coverages, you can check out Insurance Information Institute.
Who Should Consider Non-Owner Car Insurance?
A non-owner insurance policy can be a smart choice in several situations:
- Frequent car borrowing: If you often borrow cars, a non-owner policy ensures you’re covered even if the car owner’s liability limits are low. Learn more about insurance for borrowed cars.
- Car-sharing or ride-share usage: Policies can provide extra liability protection beyond what the car-sharing company offers.
- Regular car rentals: Renting cars frequently? Non-owner insurance can be more cost-effective than purchasing the rental company’s coverage each time. Note: it won’t cover physical damage to the rental, but you can usually purchase a collision damage waiver for that. Learn more about rental car insurance.
When You Might Not Need It
- Infrequent driving: If you only drive a few times a year, a non-owner policy may not be cost-effective.
- Regularly using a household member’s car: If the car is from your household, it’s often better to be added to the owner’s policy. Many insurers require all licensed household drivers to be listed on the policy.
How Much Does Non-Owner Car Insurance Cost?
Non-owner insurance is generally cheaper than standard auto insurance because it only covers liability, not the car itself. Costs depend on your driving history, location, coverage limits, and other factors. For personalized quotes, Progressive and Geico offer online tools to help you find rates.
How to Get Non-Owner Car Insurance
Not all insurers offer non-owner policies, so it’s important to shop around. You can usually get a quote online, over the phone, or through a local agent. Be prepared to provide personal information such as your name, address, and Social Security number.
