You need to understand that every state has different auto insurance laws. If your college student takes the car to another state, the coverage on the automobile may need to change. While some states are straight liability and others are no fault, your auto may not have adequate coverage. Minimum auto insurance laws vary, so check with your auto insurance provider to determine if you will need to make an adjustment to your policy.
If you are still concerned about your own liability, you may want to consider letting your college student assume the title to the vehicle, as long as he or she is at least 18 years old. Since your child now has the title, he or she can obtain his or her own policy. Not only does this reduce your liability exposure, but it also encourages your child’s personal growth and responsibility.
Another important discussion you should have with your college student involves discouraging him or her from letting other people drive the car. Since not every student has a vehicle at school, students often lend their cars out to others. However, your child needs to understand that he or she is responsible for what happens to the car – no matter who is driving.
Along the same lines, you should also have the discussion about drunk driving with your college student. Almost all parents would like to believe that their child is different and won’t drink at school, but the reality is quite different. With an easily accessible vehicle, the temptation to drink and drive can be great. However, besides the other difficulties it may cause, a DUI can not only result in the cancellation of the policy, but it will affect premiums and the availability for many years.
When your child heads off to college, it is ultimately your choice as to what to do about the vehicle and your auto insurance. Though you have options, you should sit down with your college student and your auto insurance provider to clarify your position and make sure you have the correct coverage for your particular situation.
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