Who Needs to Be Included on My Car’s Insurance Plan?
Car insurance is a vital component of responsible vehicle ownership, providing financial protection in cases of accidents. When it comes to ensuring adequate coverage, you should consider any individual who plans to be behind the wheel of your car, which may include family members, teenagers, or other permissive users. In instances where a potential accident can occur, you want to ensure your liability insurance pays for injuries, property damage, and other losses up to coverage limits, no matter who is behind the wheel.
Maryland enforces harsh penalties for drivers who opt to drive uninsured, as public authorities do not want citizens risking bankruptcy collisions where they’re not at fault. Speak with attorney Hillel Traub at The Law Office of Hillel Traub if you were injured in an accident with an uninsured driver.
3 Parties That Must Be Included on Your Car Insurance Plan in Maryland
The following are the key parties that should be considered when assessing who needs to be included in your car insurance plan:
1. Resident Family Members
Your car insurance policy should typically include all resident family members who hold a Maryland driver’s license. This includes immediate family members who live in your household, such as a spouse or other dependents. It’s important to disclose the names and driving histories of all motorists who use your vehicle to your insurance provider when obtaining or renewing your policy.
2. Newly Licensed Teenagers
When your teenager obtains their driver’s license, it is essential to notify your insurance provider promptly. Most insurance companies require teenage drivers to be added to the policy to ensure adequate coverage. Keep in mind that adding a teenage driver to your policy may increase premiums due to their limited driving experience.
3. Permissive Users
If you frequently lend your vehicle to someone who is not a resident family member, such as a close friend or neighbor, it is imperative to inform your insurance provider. Insurance companies may require you to add these regularly operating drivers to your policy to ensure they have appropriate coverage in the event of a collision. Failing to disclose this information can result in denied claims or even policy cancellation.
Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Maryland
Maryland drivers must obtain the following minimum coverage to meet legal insurance requirements:
- $30,000 for injury or death of an individual
- $60,000 for injury or death of two or more individuals
- $15,000 for property damages
Uninsured motorist coverage minimums are identical to liability coverage in Maryland. They protect drivers and passengers if an uninsured or underinsured motorist causes a collision or if you are a victim of a hit-and-run accident.
Your liability coverage protects anyone named under the policy. Generally, your liability insurance will also cover you if you get into an accident in a rental car.
Contact the Traffic Violations Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
When it comes to car insurance in Maryland, knowing who should be included on your policy ensures you have the right coverage in case of an accident. It also helps you avoid potential pitfalls along the way. For experienced legal counsel, speak with attorney Hillel Traub at The Law Office of Hillel Traub. As a former lawyer for the MVA with over 30 years of experience representing countless Maryland motorists, he will ensure you comply with state regulations and are protected in the event of an accident.
Schedule a complimentary consultation today by calling (410) 580-1100 or filling out our contact form.