If I buy a used car will my current insurance policy cover me in case of an accident before I am able to notify my agent or company?

Apr 01, 2022

The short answer is a “ qualified yes”.


An extension of coverage for what is typically called a “newly acquired auto” is either provided (or not) based on your auto insurance contract’s terms.


Many policies utilize an ISO Personal Auto Policy form (IE: PP 00 01 01 05) or mimic verbiage similar to that outlined by that contract.


Below are some snippets from an ISO Personal Auto Policy pertinent to this question.


This first one defines what a “Newly acquired auto” is:


The ISO Personal Auto Policy form (PP 00 01 01 05) goes on to describe the circumstances where different coverage parts apply:

Many policies will extend at least some coverage parts (IE: Liability) benefits for up to 30 days.


As the form above suggests, Comprehensive and Collision may only be extended for four (4) days if no other vehicle on the policy includes those coverage parts.


It may also be worthwhile to note that none of the policy language above speaks to state registration requirements for coverage to be triggered. That is a separate transaction.


Does that mean you shouldn’t call your agent to notify them as soon as possible after purchasing an auto? Of course not. Contacting your agency or company should happen at the earliest opportunity and include a discussion about the specific coverage you want on your new car.


-------------------------------

“Ask Jeff" is a weekly post made on the RyanAgency.com Blog. 

Submit an insurance related question to “Ask Jeff”. 

-------------------------------



-------------------------------

“Ask Jeff" is a weekly post made on the RyanAgency.com Blog. 

Submit an insurance-related question to “Ask Jeff”. 

-------------------------------

This article may have been originally published at Quora.com.

To see Jeff's Quora.com profile click here.

Personal injury is different from bodily injury and is treated as such by homeowners' liability form
By Jeff Ryan - CLU, ChFC, AIA, CIC, CPCU 20 Mar, 2024
Personal injury is different from bodily injury and is treated as such by homeowners' liability forms. Learn more>
What's with All These Annoying Insurance Audits
By Jeff Ryan - CLU, ChFC, AIA, CIC, CPCU 09 Mar, 2024
The purpose and importance of annoying insurance audits for determining the appropriate rate for your business
What does Bait-and-Switch have to do with insurance? And why has it recently been in the news?
By Jeff Ryan - CLU, ChFC, AIA, CIC, CPCU 20 Feb, 2024
What does Bait-and-Switch have to do with insurance? And why has it recently been in the news?
Top 3 Insurance Tips to Close out 2023
By Jeff Ryan - CLU, ChFC, AIA, CIC, CPCU 27 Nov, 2023
The insurance landscape is currently facing unprecedented challenges. At The Ryan Agency, with over 60 years of service to our community, we understand that this might be the toughest insurance market yet.
When your car is hit while parked and unattended, it's important to know your options. Here are som
By Jeff Ryan - CLU, ChFC, AIA, CIC, CPCU 08 Nov, 2023
When your car is hit while parked and unattended, it's important to know your options. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and get your car repaired.
Understanding Insurance Responsibility After an Accident: Who Pays for What? Delve into the intricac
By Jeff Ryan 30 Oct, 2023
Understanding Insurance Responsibility After an Accident: Who Pays for What? Delve into the intricacies of insurance responses when accidents occur.
Discover the Evolution of New York's Supplemental Spousal Liability Insurance Coverage and its Impac
By Jeff Ryan - CLU, ChFC, AIA, CIC, CPCU 20 Aug, 2023
Discover the real history of New York's Supplemental Spousal Liability Insurance Coverage and its Impact Today.
The E-Bike Insurance Dilemma. You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers.
By Jeff Ryan 28 Jul, 2023
As electric bikes soar in popularity, questions about insuring them become essential. Discover the options for coverage and how E-Bike insurance differs from traditional policies. Get expert advice on the best ways to protect your investment.
Understanding the Distinction: Employee vs Independent Contractor
By Jeff Ryan 20 Jul, 2023
Unlock the Secret to Employee Classification: Protect Your Business, Avoid Costly Consequences. Discover the key to proper classification and safeguard your future.
Businesses that should consider Cyber Insurance
By Jeff Ryan 17 Apr, 2023
Final article in a 3 part series about cyber security insurance for business.
More Posts
Share by: