I have an insured vehicle in Massachusetts. But because of my health condition, as of the present, I am not allowed to drive yet. Now, my sister is using my car. However, she is not named on my auto insurance policy. My question is, if my sister got involved (and I hope she won’t) in an accident would she be covered by my auto insurance company? Also, if she has a traffic violation using my car will it be put under my name? With that, will it cause my auto insurance rate to go up?

Lea

Haverhill, MA

I wish you good health Lea.

Now going back to your question, in general, auto insurance companies only cover a person if he/she is listed as one of the driver’s in your auto insurance policy. Since you’ve mentioned that your sister is not listed on your car insurance policy, then I am afraid but I think she is not covered by your insurer.

In addition, if she is cited for a traffic violation, you don’t have to worry because it will not affect your driving record at all. Said violation will be listed under your sister’s name. So with this, your car insurance rate will not go up because it is her traffic violation not yours. However, if you decide to file for a claim because there was a damage incurred on your vehicle because of your sister’s action, then your auto insurance rate might go up. This is because claims history is usually one of the factors that affect car insurance premium to increase.

To better help you with your inquiry, it is best to ask your car insurance agent in Massachusetts.