Probably only one or two names are listed in the Named Insured section of your auto insurance policy, possibly you and your spouse. But other people are allowed to drive your car, including those outside of your family. Generally, auto insurance coverage is attached to the vehicle, not to the driver. So, if your car is involved in an accident, the damage will typically be fully covered by your auto insurance policy, even if the driver was someone not named on the policy.

Other than yourself, your auto policy covers your car if it is driven by any of the following:

• Your spouse, as long as he or she lives in your household
• Other family members who are related to you by blood, marriage, or adoption
• A foster child who lives in your household
• A child who is away at college but still considers the address listed on your policy as his or her permanent address
• Anyone to whom you lend your car

The person who borrows your car must be a licensed driver. Also, most insurance companies require that anyone driving your car receives your permission. Conditions can vary, so check your policy carefully and make sure that you understand any policy limitations. Keep in mind that most insurance companies require you to list all of the principal and secondary drivers of every insured vehicle. If you have a teen driver at home, he or she should be listed on your insurance policy even though your insurance rates may increase substantially. If the teen driver has an accident, damages to your car will still be covered, but your insurer could charge you additional premiums retroactively from the date the teen became a licensed driver.