I’ve wondered about this too, especially since I’m still on my parents’ policy. If a friend only drives my car once in a while, like for emergencies or a quick errand, does that still count as “permissive use”? Or could the insurance deny a claim if they think it’s too frequent? The whole “depends on the circumstances” thing just makes it more confusing.
I’ve had this exact worry, actually. A few years back, my roommate borrowed my car a couple times for late-night pharmacy runs. Nothing happened, but I kept thinking—if something did, would insurance really cover it? From what I’ve read, “permissive use” usually means occasional, not regular. If your friend’s driving starts looking routine, the company might push back. It’s so vague though… I’d rather play it safe and just add them if it’s going to be more than a rare favor.
- Had a similar situation last winter—my cousin needed my car for a week while hers was in the shop.
- Called my insurance just to be sure, and they said “permissive use” is fine for a day or two, but anything longer gets sketchy.
- Honestly, the definitions are so fuzzy. I’d rather not risk it if someone’s borrowing more than once in a blue moon.
- Feels like one of those things where you only find out the hard way if you’re not covered...
“the definitions are so fuzzy. I’d rather not risk it if someone’s borrowing more than once in a blue moon.”
That’s exactly what tripped me up last year. My neighbor needed my car for “just a few days” while his was in the shop, and suddenly it turned into almost two weeks. I called my insurer and got the same vague answers—felt like I was trying to decode ancient runes. Ended up adding him as a driver just to avoid any “surprise, you’re not covered!” moments. Not worth gambling with insurance fine print, especially when Minnesota winters are involved...
“felt like I was trying to decode ancient runes”
Totally get where you’re coming from. Insurance language is a maze, and those “permissive use” clauses are never as clear as they should be. Here’s how I see it:
- If someone’s borrowing for more than a quick errand, it’s safer to add them.
- A couple days can turn into weeks fast (been there myself).
- With winter roads, I’d rather pay a few bucks than risk a denied claim.
You made the right call. Peace of mind is worth it, especially in MN.
