Driving without insurance question

Question

Is it illegal to drive a car in LA, California that isnt insured under my name? I'm a licensed driver but the car i drive is insured under my parents name. Minus being in an accident, realistically, what is the worst that can happen with the law?

Answer 1

Don't live in California, but most Insurance Companies follw this general rule:

Do you live with your parents? If you do and you drive then your name should be on the policy as at least an occasional driver. If you do not, so long as you are a licensed driver then you would be covered.

Under the law, if you are caught driving without insurance, the car can be impounded, you could lose your license and be required to pay a fine.

And that's not taking into account that the Insurance company would refuse to pay any damages should you actually be in a crash.

Read your parent's policy to get the actual terms of coverage. Personally.. I wouldn't take the risk.

Answer 2

Do you live at the same address as your parents?  If so, and there is an accident, the insurance may well balk and tell you that you should have been added to the policy.  If not, and you're using it with your parents permission, you're covered under their insurance.

Make sure you have their insurance card in the glove box, along with the registration, in case you are stopped and asked for it.

Answer 3

DMV will suspend your license for a year.

Answer 4

you should have your name put on the insurance.

but all they would do is ask your parents if you're allowed to drive the car.  

Answer 5

The car has to be insured.  Unless you are an excluded driver you're probably covered.  Your name doesn't have to be on the policy but you need to be a rated driver.

Answer 6

If you live in your parents home, you must be listed on the policy. If you do not live in your parents home you do not have to be listed on your parents policy. Any licensed driver not living at the home of the insured party can drivr the insured vehicle. Be sure to keep the proof of insurance in the vehicle.