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Twin Bridges Insurance Agency

1881 Western Avenue, Suite 210
Albany, NY 12203

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Should You Add Everyone Who Drives Your Car to Your Auto Insurance Policy?

Sharing your car with family or friends might seem like no big deal, especially if it’s just for a short trip or an occasional errand. However, when it comes to auto insurance, who drives your car matters more than most people realize. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency in Albany, NY, we often get questions from drivers wondering if they need to list every person who gets behind the wheel. The answer isn’t always simple, but it’s important to understand.

Why It Matters Who’s on Your Policy

When you add someone to your policy, your insurance company considers their driving history, which can affect your rates. More importantly, it ensures that the person is fully covered when driving your vehicle. If someone regularly uses your car and isn’t listed on your policy, it could create issues if there’s an accident. In some cases, a claim might even be denied depending on the terms of your coverage.

That doesn’t mean you need to list every single person who might borrow your car occasionally. Most policies provide coverage for occasional drivers, especially if they have permission. However, if someone lives in your household or drives your vehicle frequently, it’s usually best to add them officially.

Planning Ahead Can Prevent Problems

Auto insurance is designed to protect you from the unexpected. Being honest about who uses your car helps avoid complications later on. At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency in Albany, NY, we’re here to ensure your policy fits your real-life needs. If you’re unsure who should be listed or want to review your coverage, reach out to us today, and let’s make sure you’re driving with confidence.

Amenities You Need To Let Your Home Insurance Company Know About

Home insurance provides essential protection to cover your losses in the event of a crisis, such as a natural disaster. Liability coverage is often determined based on the likelihood of an accident occurring on your property. Certain amenities can lead to higher insurance rates because they require more property protection or are considered higher risk. Failing to inform your insurance company about these amenities can result in claim denials.

Swimming Pools

Swimming pools typically require additional property coverage. If a disaster occurs, you should have enough coverage to replace your swimming pool. Pools are also considered high risk, meaning you may need more liability coverage.

Some insurance companies require specific safety precautions, such as installing a fence around the pool to prevent accidental falls and drownings. They may also require other safety measures, like a pool cover. Speak with an agent at NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency to learn more about home insurance requirements in the Albany, NY, area.

Treehouses

Treehouses are considered an "attractive nuisance." This term applies to amenities that are appealing to children but increase the likelihood of injuries. Some insurance companies may not mind if you have a treehouse, while others might require fencing around it. In some cases, a company may exclude treehouse-related injuries from your policy.

Other Amenities

Several other amenities should be disclosed to your insurer because they either increase the risk of injury or raise your property value. These include:

  • Outdoor firepits
  • Outdoor kitchens
  • Trampolines
  • Hot tubs
  • Remodels that increase property value, such as finishing a basement
  • Woodburning stoves
  • Outdoor living spaces that are expensive to replace

At NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency, we can help you understand how these amenities may impact your policy. Contact us today! We proudly serve the Albany, NY, area.