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Auto Insurance Claims/Death of Policy Holder

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Expert: - 2/28/2009


Question
My mother died and left a newer model car.  Since her death my family has been using it as a spare car.  We have not changed the name on the insurance, but we have been paying the premiums.  Is the insurance still valid or do we need to change the policy holder?  I live in NJ.

Answer
Hi Kathy,

You are required to notify the insurance company of the death of the policy holder within 30 days, upon which the policy will be cancelled. You will need to have the vehicle re-insured into your name or you may be able to just add it to your own auto policy. It is possible the new company will require that the car be re-titled in your name. This process will depend on your state probate laws and will depend on the status of your mothers estate. You should consult an estate/probate attorney for more information on this.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh

Auto Insurance Claims

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Richard Hixenbaugh

Expertise

Auto insurance claims procedure, auto coverage, liability issues, auto damage questions, how to deal with the insurance company, loss of use and diminished value.

Experience

I have been involved in the insurance industry for over 25 years. I have experience in underwriting, sales, claims adjusting, auto damage estimating, auto value appraising and diminished value appraising. I have testified as an expert witness over 35 times.

Organizations
Society of Certified Auto Appraisers

Education/Credentials
Completed all required courses for the Florida Property-Casualty agents license and the Florida claims adjusters license. I have attended various courses on auto damage estmating, vehicle appraising and am ASE certified in collision damage analysis.

Past/Present Clients
My company has done work for consumers nationwide.

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