Non-owner car insurance, also known as named non-owner car insurance, provides liability coverage for drivers when they are operating a vehicle they do not own. This type of insurance is ideal for those who occasionally borrow or rent cars.
While non-owner car insurance is not required by law in Massachusetts, it can provide an extra layer of protection in the event you are involved in an at-fault accident while driving someone else’s car.
Below you will find everything you need to know about non-owner car insurance in Massachusetts including:
- What is non-owner car insurance?
- Who needs non-owner car insurance?
- What does non-owner car insurance cover?
- How much does non-owner car insurance cost?
- The best non-owner car insurance providers in Massachusetts
- Requirements for non-owner car insurance in Massachusetts
- Laws regarding non-owner car insurance in Massachusetts
- Pros and cons of non-owner car insurance
- Frequently asked questions about non-owner car insurance in MA
What is Non-Owner Car Insurance?
Non-owner car insurance provides liability coverage when you drive a vehicle that you do not own. It can cover costs related to:
- Bodily injury liability – covers injuries to others when you are at fault
- Property damage liability – covers damage to others’ property when you are at fault
Non-owner car insurance protects you when you drive borrowed or rented cars. It does not provide coverage for damage to the vehicle you are driving or injury to yourself.
If you cause an accident while driving another person’s car, their insurance would cover damages first. Then your non-owner car insurance policy would provide additional liability coverage above their policy limits.
Without non-owner car insurance, you could be held personally responsible for accident-related costs not covered by the vehicle owner’s policy.
Who Needs Non-Owner Car Insurance?
Non-owner car insurance is recommended for drivers who:
- Do not own a car
- Borrow or rent vehicles occasionally
- Have a lapse in their regular car insurance coverage
Examples of drivers who benefit from non-owner car insurance include:
- College students living away from home
- People who live in cities and mostly use public transportation or rideshares
- Those who borrow a family or friend’s car periodically
- People who rent cars regularly for business or leisure
Having non-owner car insurance ensures you have liability protection when driving a car you do not own. This can provide peace of mind if you were to get in an at-fault accident.
What Does Non-Owner Car Insurance Cover?
Non-owner car insurance provides liability coverage only. It covers costs associated with:
Bodily Injury Liability:
- Covers injuries to others for which you are responsible
- Pays for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering
Property Damage Liability
- Covers damage you cause to another person’s property
- Pays for repairs or replacements costs
Non-owner car insurance does not cover:
- Damage to the borrowed/rented vehicle
- Injuries to yourself
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Comprehensive or collision coverage
- Medical payments
The vehicle owner’s insurance policy would provide coverage for damage to their car that you cause. Your health insurance may cover injuries to yourself.
That’s why non-owner car insurance is usually purchased as a supplement to other policies when you drive a car you don’t own.
How Much Does Non-Owner Car Insurance Cost?
The cost of non-owner car insurance varies depending on factors like:
- Your age
- Driving record
- Location
- Amount of coverage
On average, non-owner car insurance costs between $200 – $700 per year. It may be less expensive than regular car insurance since it only provides liability coverage.
Bundling non-owner car insurance with renters or homeowners insurance from the same provider can also lower your rate.
Some other ways to save on non-owner car insurance include:
- Taking a defensive driving course
- Maintaining a good credit score
- Keeping a clean driving record
- Increasing deductibles
Getting quotes from multiple insurance companies is the best way to find the most competitive rate. Be sure to compare the same coverage amounts when comparing quotes.
The Best Non-Owner Car Insurance Providers in Massachusetts
When getting a non-owner car insurance policy, you want to find a reliable insurer that offers affordable rates. Here are some of the top non-owner car insurance providers in Massachusetts:
Geico
- Second largest auto insurer in the U.S.
- Available in all 50 states
- Offers online quotes and policy management
- Lots of discounts available
- Mobile app with policy services
State Farm
- Largest auto insurer in the U.S.
- Established reputation with excellent financial strength
- Extensive agent network for personalized service
- Bundling discounts on other insurance policies
Progressive
- Third largest auto insurer nationwide
- Online quotes and policy management
- Name Your Price® tool lets you pick a budget for coverage
- Usage-based insurance program rewards safe driving
- Easy claims process with app and web services
Plymouth Rock
- Regional insurer with excellent customer service
- Policies available for high-risk drivers
- Local agents provide personalized help
- Low down payment options
- Discounts for defensive driving, good students, affinity groups
Safety Insurance
- Auto insurance leader in Massachusetts
- Policies available for high-risk drivers
- Local agents provide personalized help
- Low down payment options
- Affordable rates and flexible payment plans
When choosing the best non-owner car insurance company, get quotes from several providers. Compare their rates, financial strength, customer service, and discounts to find the right policy for you.
Requirements for Non-Owner Car Insurance in Massachusetts
While non-owner car insurance is not required by Massachusetts state law, having this coverage when you drive vehicles not registered to you is highly recommended.
Legally, every car driven in Massachusetts must meet the state’s minimum liability insurance requirements. This includes:
- $20,000 bodily injury liability per person
- $40,000 bodily injury liability per accident
- $5,000 property damage liability
However, experts recommend higher liability limits for adequate protection. Common recommended limits are:
- $100,000 bodily injury per person
- $300,000 bodily injury per accident
- $100,000 property damage liability
When getting non-owner car insurance, make sure the liability coverage meets your needs and the minimum state requirements. Your insurance agent can help you determine appropriate coverage amounts.
Laws Regarding Non-Owner Car Insurance in Massachusetts
It’s important to understand Massachusetts laws regarding driving other people’s cars when you have a non-owner policy:
- The vehicle owner’s insurance is primary. Their policy pays first for any accident-related damages.
- Your non-owner car insurance provides additional liability coverage above the owner’s policy limits.
- You must have the registered vehicle owner’s permission to drive their car.
- The owner’s policy may exclude coverage if you drive their uninsured car.
- You must carry proof of insurance when driving any car.
- Insurance follows the driver, not the vehicle. The driver’s coverage is applied.
Violating any of these laws can result in fines, loss of driving privileges, and criminal charges. Be sure to comply with all MA regulations when driving a car you do not own.
Pros and Cons of Non-Owner Car Insurance
Pros
- Protection from liability when driving a non-owned car
- No need to be listed on the vehicle owner’s policy
- Continued coverage between cars
- Lower cost compared to regular car insurance
Cons
- Does not cover damage to borrowed/rented cars
- No coverage for your medical bills
- Limited coverage compared to regular car insurance
- Still need permission from owner to drive their car
Overall, non-owner car insurance can provide affordability and flexibility along with vital liability protection. Just be aware it is not a substitute for a complete auto insurance policy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Non-Owner Car Insurance in MA
Is non-owner car insurance required in Massachusetts?
No, Massachusetts law does not require non-owner car insurance. But it is highly recommended when driving a car you do not own to protect yourself from potential liability.
How long can I keep a non-owner car insurance policy?
You can keep a non-owner car insurance policy indefinitely as long as you pay your premiums on time. It provides continuous coverage in between owned vehicles or if you do not have a car.
Can I drive my friend’s car without being on their insurance?
You can drive your friend’s car without being listed on their insurance if you have a non-owner car insurance policy. Just be sure to get their express permission and notify your insurance company.
Is my health insurance enough coverage when driving someone else’s car?
No, your health insurance will only pay for your own medical treatment after an accident but does not provide any liability coverage. Non
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