Auto Insurance Agent Monroe Louisiana LA

Reader’s Question:

I just bought a used car last week in Monroe, Louisiana, will my insurance cover me if I drive it to my home without notifying the insurance agent first? Also, how long do I have before reporting it to my insurance company?

Janice

Monroe, LA

It is always better to have your car insurance for any car you are purchasing to set up before you take the ownership. If you do not have an insurance policy in Monroe, LA then you definitely would not have automatic coverage. If you were buying the car with a loan it is possible that the lien holder would require you to have car insurance before you leave the dealership. Each state has different laws and each insurance company has different rules and guidelines.

Generally, car insurance companies will transfer coverage of an existing car (or vehicle that you traded in) to the “new” one for up anywhere from a few days up to 30 days. The amount of time depends on your car insurance company’s rules and state laws. A common mistake is when someone has liability coverage only on a car and then they purchase a car that needs physical damage (because of a loan or lease) and they are not covered. Be reminded that the insurance coverage transferred is typically limited to the amount of coverage on the old vehicle. If you never notify the insurance company or not within the days allows by law or rules (sometimes 5, 14 and even 31 days) then the new car would not be covered.

Tags: auto insurance, car insurance agent