5 Things Not Covered by Your Auto Insurance Policy

Your auto insurance policy can cover things like damage to your car, damage to someone else's car, and medical expenses due to an accident. It will even pay for a hit and run- after your deductible, of course- a grocery cart causing damage, and even a deer hitting you or a fallen object. While all these things are covered, some things are not and are specifically excluded. Be sure to read your policy so you are aware of all the exclusions and inclusions and can drive smarter.

Here are 5 things that are commonly not covered by an auto insurance policy. 

• Maintenance – Your vehicle needs things to stay safe and reliable, like oil changes and other things that pop up due to everyday use. If something breaks due to wear and tear, your auto insurance policy is not going to cover it. Look for a warranty if you are worried about the costs of car ownership. 

• Personal Belongings – Leaving items in your car is not advisable, as they will not be replaced if they are stolen. If someone steals your vehicle, that will be replaced. If you have a homeowner's or renters insurance policy, this is where you will look for coverage to replace your personal items. 

• Business – Whether you are driving for Uber, delivering groceries for Instacart, or simply delivering pizzas, business use is almost always excluded on a personal auto policy. With the popularity of gig work, some carriers are offering an add-on to help cover this, but be sure to understand what exactly it is covering. It may be best to purchase a Commercial Auto policy. 

• Other Cars – Your auto insurance follows the vehicle, not you. So if you drive a friend or family member's car, keep in mind any accidents will go on their insurance policy. 

• Customizations – While it may be enjoyable to upgrade your car by doing some customizations, you should keep in mind these are rarely covered by a basic personal auto policy. This includes things like DVD players, custom seats, and even any disability upgrades like wheelchair lifts. If you plan on doing some custom things, talk to your agent as there are some ways to purchase coverage for it. 

There may always be some coverage gaps that you didn't expect with any insurance policy, and an auto policy is no exception. If you want to review your coverage, call the team at Rumbaugh Insurance today.