With so many busy schedules these days, carpooling is a bonus for most parents. Taking turns to get a group of kids to and from school and their various activities gives everyone a break, and helps save on transportation costs. However, with other people’s kids in your vehicle, who’s responsible for their insurance coverage when you’re at the wheel?
The answer depends on where you live:
Tort-based systems of insurance
Passengers in your vehicle can claim for their injuries against your insurance policy, regardless of who caused the accident or whether they have their own coverage somewhere else.
No-fault systems of insurance
Regardless of fault, all parties involved in an accident go back to their own insurance company to claim for losses. If the parents of the children in your car do not have their own car insurance policy, those children would claim for their injuries under your policy.
Do you need extra coverage?
If you’re a volunteer driver, or even if you’re a home daycare provider who occasionally takes the children to a nearby playground, your passengers are covered under your auto policy. Extra coverage is required only if you regularly carry paying passengers or if, for example, you’re compensated for driving a company-owned vehicle to transport commuters.
Call 1-800-387-1963 and talk to a Licensed Insurance Representative to make sure you have the right auto coverage for your needs.
