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Temporarily Staying In A Different State: 3 Features Regarding Your Car Insurance Policy You Should Consider

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If you're driving a family vehicle out-of-state, you need to be fully aware of whether your car insurance policy will carry on to the state that you are in or else you might find yourself in big trouble should any accidents occur. Just because your car insurance policy is valid in one state, it doesn't mean that it will still be valid once you cross state lines. Here are 3 things that you need to consider.

The Presence of Out-of-State Coverage

Although most car insurance policies do cover out-of-state mileages, this may not necessarily always be the case — especially if you opted for one of the cheaper insurance packages available. Before crossing any state lines or even leaving the state, you must determine whether your car insurance policy will even cover you.

In the event that the vehicle is shared between you and another family member, you will need to determine whether a principal driver is declared. If you are not declared as the principal driver of the vehicle and drive the vehicle out of the insured state, the policy may not cover you in the event of an accident.

State Requirements on Amount of Property Damage Liability Insurance Coverage Needed

Each state will have its own requirements regarding the amount of car insurance or coverage that each policy must cover in order for the insurance policy to be considered valid in the state. For example, in Alabama, the minimum liability limit and coverage required is $25,000 for each person injured in the accident, $50,000 for the entire accident, and $25,000 for property damage. On the other hand, the minimum liability limit and coverage required in Delaware is $15,000 for each person injured in the accident, $30,000 for the entire accident, and $10,000 for property damage.

If you were originally from Alabama, but going to Delaware, chances are that your policy will provide adequate coverage that meets Delaware's state requirements. On the other hand, if you are originally from Delaware, but planning on staying in Alabama, you might have inadequate coverage. If you get pulled over without the right amount of coverage, you could face hefty penalties and fines.

Time Limit for Staying in a Different State

If you are planning on staying in another state for a long period of time, you will have to eventually purchase new car insurance; however, if you are only staying for a short period of time, your car insurance policy may cover you for some period of time. The amount of time will vary based on your policy. You should always call your car insurance agent to determine whether there are any time limits for how long you can stay in a different state before your car insurance policy expires or is considered to be invalid. 

Conclusion

There are many factors that you need to consider before driving your vehicle out-of-state. If you are not sure whether or not you will be covered, speak with your insurance agent. At times, it may be more beneficial for your situation if you purchase additional coverage or a separate insurance policy in the state that you will be temporarily staying in. For more information, talk to a professional like House-Chilson & Associates.


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