An excluded driver is a person who has been specifically removed from coverage under an auto insurance policy. If an excluded driver operates a vehicle covered by that policy, coverage may not apply in the event of an accident. Understanding what this means for your household is one of the most important steps you can take to make sure you are not caught off guard when you need your coverage most.
Why would a driver be excluded?
A driver may be excluded from a policy for several reasons, including:
- A poor driving record, such as multiple violations or at-fault accidents
- A DUI or DWI conviction
- Limited driving experience
- A request by the policyholder to lower the overall premium
In some cases, an insurer may require that a household member with a high-risk driving history be excluded before issuing or renewing a policy. This is not uncommon, and it does not necessarily mean the policyholder is without options. It simply means that one specific person will not be covered if they operate the insured vehicle. If your insurer flags someone in your household, it is worth having a conversation with your agent to understand exactly what that exclusion means for your policy going forward.
What happens if an excluded driver gets in an accident?
If an excluded driver is involved in an accident while operating a covered vehicle, the policy may not cover the resulting damage or injuries. This may leave both the excluded driver and the vehicle owner personally responsible for all costs associated with the accident, including property damage, medical expenses and any legal liability. The specific consequences may vary by state and insurer, which is exactly why it is so important to know who is and who is not listed on your policy before anyone else gets behind the wheel.
Can an excluded driver be added back to a policy?
In some cases, an excluded driver may be eligible to be added back to a policy at a later date, depending on the insurer's guidelines and whether the driver's record has improved. If time has passed and a driver's history looks better than it did at the time of the exclusion, it is always worth asking your agent to take another look. This is typically handled by contacting the insurer or agent directly, and the process can vary based on the carrier and the state where the policy is written.
For more details on how driver exclusions work, read the IIA glossary page on named driver exclusion.
Find affordable auto insurance options
Infinity Insurance Agency, Inc. (IIA) works with more than 20 insurance carriers to help you find a personal auto insurance policy that matches your budget and coverage needs. Our experienced bilingual Spanish-speaking agents are here to explain your coverage options, including how driver exclusions can impact your household and what you can do to help ensure the right drivers are protected.
Call 1-855-478-3705 or get a free quote online today.
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