When you sign an auto insurance policy, you’re signing a contract that includes a set of guidelines. So, apart from paying premiums, you are expected to adhere to those guidelines as well. The following decisions—whether made purposely or accidentally—may be viewed as insurance fraud by your insurance provider. If this happens, you may be responsible for paying back premiums, your claim may be denied on grounds of insurance fraud and/or your policy may be cancelled.

1.       Neglecting to insure a new car: Auto insurance policies are written to cover your specific vehicle. So when you buy a new car, you’ll need to contact your insurer to make the necessary changes. Though some insurers give you a grace period for this notification, it’s best if you call right away.

2.       A change in relationship status: If your significant other moves in or you get married, you’ll probably share each other’s cars (at least occasionally). The best way to avoid a problem is to call your insurer and combine auto insurance policies, resulting in both individuals and both cars being listed on the policy.

3.       Failing to add a new teen driver to your policy: It may not sound appealing to call your insurer to add your teen to your policy, because your rates will very likely increase. However, insurers have ways of discovering “hidden” drivers through various reporting tools, and the omission will not reflect well on you.

4.       Lending your car to a friend: While many auto insurance policies allow you to lend your car to friends on occasion, letting someone borrow your car for an extended period of time—for instance, a few weeks—may be against policy guidelines. In this case, the borrower may need to purchase temporary coverage.

5.       Gifting your car to an out-of-state relative: If you decide to gift your car to a relative or child who moves out-of-state, your insurer must be informed. States have varying laws regarding auto insurance and chances are, the car will need a new policy. It’s best if the car’s new owner buys a policy under his or her own name.

6.       Using your car for work: Any car used to make deliveries or perform other work tasks may be excluded from coverage during work hours. You’ll need to purchase business-use or commercial auto insurance.

Have any questions? Call The Bush Agency at 912-356-0266 for more information on Savannah auto insurance.