Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 10/1/2009

Question
Hello Richard,

I just got into an accident with a young driver yesterday, he was at fault because he was coming out of an alley and did not see me.  He said he was covered under his dad's insurance (Founders), so I called immediately to file a claim.  They called me today and said that the driver's name was not listed under the policy.  And because his name is not listed, my damages may not be covered.  They will get back to me as soon as they get more information from the policy holder?  Is this possible?  Also, the son listed a different address than his father has on the policy, does that make a difference?  Should I take my chances and hope they cover my damages?  Or should I go with my insurance and pay the deductible?

Answer
Hi Claudia,

Yes. This does make sense. This is because virtually all insurance companies require that all drivers in the household be listed on the policy as a potential driver. Since the son is not listed on the policy this may cause a coverage issue and requires further investigation by the insurance company. If the son lives in the fathers household but was not disclosed as a driver there may be no coverage.

However, you mentioned that the son has a different address. If the insurance comapny is able to verify that the son does not live with the father then there should be no problem with coverage becaus you can loan your car to anyone that does not live in your household and any accidents are covered.

You can give them a couple of days to clear things up but after that you should go with your own insurance company.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh