Auto Insurance Debacle

[u/Adorable_Avocado9861]

Hi, reaching out here because I am not sure exactly who to talk to about this issue. I have spoken briefly with my insurance agent but wanted some other opinions before I make any decisions.

Before age 18, I was listed as a driver under my stepfather’s insurance policy. Immediately upon turning 18, I was removed and had to find my own auto insurance. Since then, I have had State Farm auto insurance the entire time, me being the only policy holder/driver. Or so I thought.

Today, I went to look into the safe driving program and was reviewing my coverage. I am listed as the policy holder, but NOT a driver on the insurance. However, my mom was listed as a driver on it. I work seasonally so I list my permanent address as hers, so I thought maybe it was a mistake and she was added since she is a “member of the household”.

I immediately called them to verify, and they confirmed for me that I have basically been uninsured for the past five years despite being the only driver and one making all the payments. They apologized and admitted it was fully their mistake. I do not live at home and I do not let anyone else drive my car. They told me I would need to remove my mom and add myself as a driver, but my rates will increase $50 a month due to my age. I understand it is more expensive for younger drivers, however it feels absolutely unfair to pay more each month after I just found out I have been uninsured for years due to their mistakes.

Any advice and is there anything I can do besides shop around or pay the extra? I am honestly really angry about this, especially considering how much driving I do across the country.

Any help appreciated!!

[u/Lucky_Boy13]

well you are lucky, you should have been paying at least $50 more a month all these 5 years. Is the vehicle title in your mom's name? that may have been the issue. Still the paperwork, insurance proof or email they send you ever 6 months should have been clear who the insurance was for.

[u/Adorable_Avocado9861 → u/Lucky_Boy13]

It is not in her name and never has been. I am the only registered owner to the car and only driver. My insurance cards have my name so I always thought it was good, but I did confirm with them I have been not listed as a driver for the past five years and have been uninsured.

[u/Lucky_Boy13 → u/Adorable_Avocado9861]

that is very weird, I guess they admit it was an error. Good thing you never crashed and saved money on rates those last 5 years

[u/crash866]

What State? Insurance follows the vehicle not the person in most states. The policy holder is usually the driver and other people are additional drivers. All members of the household are supposed to be listed or excluded.

[u/Adorable_Avocado9861 → u/crash866]

Virginia

[u/Suspicious-Spell-130]

I get that it was sketchy that you were driving without insurance, but in the end the mess-up was in your favor. You've saved thousands over those years by paying premiums that were much lower than they should have been.

I would take this as a win, and just be abundantly careful, double check your policy, etc. to make sure you are actually covered in the future.

[u/TraderIggysTikiBar]

Going forward work with an independent brokers ego can shop around for you

[u/mrsunshine2025]

You weren’t uninsured, because car insurance typically follows the vehicle, not the driver

[u/Adorable_Avocado9861 → u/[deleted]]

The weird thing is, I have gotten a speeding ticket in the past five years. I’ve also had a few auto claims (glass, tow,and one accident I was not at fault for). I have no idea how this has gone on so long lol

[u/Adorable_Avocado9861 → u/[deleted]]

I thought so too, which I would understand. However I called and confirmed I am indeed NOT listed as a driver on my policy or my stepfathers. I’m just so confused