Insurance FAQ: Does your auto insurance policy follow the car or the driver?
It’s one of the most common questions Texas drivers ask: when something happens on the road, does auto insurance follow the car or the driver?
In Texas, the answer is clear—but the details matter.
Insurance Follows the Car First
Under Texas law—and in line with most major carriers—auto insurance typically follows the vehicle, not the individual driving it. This means that if someone borrows your car with your permission, your auto insurance policy is considered the primary coverage. So if your friend, sibling, or neighbor takes your vehicle for a spin and gets into an accident, your policy is the one that steps in first.
When the Driver’s Insurance Comes In
If the damages from an accident exceed the limits on your policy, the driver’s personal auto insurance may provide secondary or excess coverage.This isn’t guaranteed in every situation, but it’s possible depending on the policy and the circumstances and you’ll always want to check with your current carrier to make sure it applies since with some insurance companies, if you are not listed as a driver, you are excluded automatically.
Permission Matters—A Lot
Texas is very clear on this:
If someone drives your car without your permission, your insurance company can deny the claim. This is why it’s important to be intentional about who you hand your keys to—and to make sure they’re responsible, insured drivers.
Driving Someone Else’s Car
The reverse is also true. If you’re the one borrowing a car—and you have explicit permission to do so—the car owner’s policy is primary. Your own policy may act as secondary coverage if needed.
The Bottom Line
In Texas, auto insurance follows the car, not the driver. Understanding this helps protect you, your vehicle, and your finances—especially when others drive your car or you borrow someone else’s.
If you want to explore your coverage, update your policy, or make sure you’re fully protected, the team at CasaBlanca Insurance is here to help. We’ll walk you through your options and make sure you have exactly the coverage you need.