I get where you’re coming from, but I always wonder how much the insurance companies are really watching unless there’s a big claim. Like, if my buddy borrows my car once a month to run errands, is that “regular” enough to raise red flags? Or are they mostly looking for stuff like someone else using it for their daily commute?
I’ve called my agent before and they made it sound like as long as it’s not every week, it’s fine under permissive use. But then again, I don’t totally trust that answer—feels like they’re always looking for a reason to hike rates.
The extra cost to add someone isn’t always tiny either. Last time I checked, it would’ve bumped my premium up by almost $200 a year just to add my roommate. That’s not nothing if you’re on a tight budget. Guess it comes down to how much risk you’re willing to take... or how much you trust your friends behind the wheel.
Honestly, I get why you’re skeptical. Insurance can feel like a game of “gotcha” sometimes. From what I’ve seen, they’re not combing through your life unless there’s a big claim or something seems off. If your buddy’s just using your car once a month, that’s usually fine under permissive use—most companies are more concerned about someone using it for their daily commute or living with you full-time.
That said, $200 a year isn’t nothing, especially if you’re not sure how often your roommate will actually need the car. It’s always a bit of a balancing act between cost and peace of mind. I’d say trust your gut and maybe keep an eye on how often it’s happening... but you’re not alone in feeling like the rules are kind of murky.
Insurance can feel like a game of “gotcha” sometimes.
That’s exactly how it feels to me, honestly. I had a friend borrow my car for a weekend trip once, and I spent the whole time stressing about what would happen if something went wrong. I know “permissive use” is supposed to cover it, but I always wonder—if there’s an accident, does the insurance company actually make things harder because it wasn’t me driving? Has anyone actually had to file a claim in that situation?
- Totally get the stress—insurance companies love their fine print.
- Permissive use usually covers it, but I’ve heard stories where they dig for reasons to deny claims.
- Personally, never had to file one like that, but I’d probably still worry... just how my brain works.
- Honestly, sometimes it feels safer to just add your friend if they’re driving a lot. Less gray area.
Honestly, sometimes it feels safer to just add your friend if they’re driving a lot. Less gray area.
That’s pretty much my approach, especially with my ‘72 Chevelle. I’d rather deal with a little paperwork than risk some adjuster telling me “well, technically…” after the fact. Insurance fine print is like a maze—never know what you’ll find in there. Anyone else ever have a claim denied over something minor? Always makes me second-guess the whole permissive use thing.
