Question
Who covers my medical bills if I borrowed a car?
I borrowed a car from a friend who has State Farm full coverage insurance. While I was driving, a deer jumped into the road. I swerved to avoid it and oncoming traffic, hit a telephone pole, and broke my back in four places. What can I file a claim under?
Answer
Because you were driving a borrowed vehicle, the coverage available to you will depend on both your friend's State Farm policy and whether you carry any auto insurance of your own, but there are are a few options for you to look into.
Your friend's State Farm policy is the first place to start. A full coverage policy typically includes collision coverage for vehicle damage and bodily injury liability for injuries sustained in a covered accident. If your friend added medical payments coverage (MedPay), that can also help cover medical bills regardless of fault. West Virginia doesn't require MedPay, so whether it's available depends on what your friend actually purchased.
If you carry your own auto insurance, it may provide secondary coverage for your injuries, particularly if you have MedPay or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy.
Given the complexity of this situation and the severity of your injuries, I'd recommend reaching out to your friend's State Farm agent directly to walk through what's covered. It would also be worth consulting with a professional who can look at the full picture and advise you on next steps.
Insurance is complicated, but it doesn't have to be.
The Zebra searches all of the top insurance companies, in one place, so you can compare the cost and coverage you need to protect your car, home and other property.
Step 1: Tell us a little about yourself
Choose an insurance product and enter your zip code to get started.
Step 2: Sip your coffee while we find the best quotes
Enter the necessary information and then sit back while we find quotes from 100 top insurance carriers.
Step 3: Compare your quotes
Compare quotes side-by-side to find the right match for you, whether it's home, auto, or more.
Step 4: Let our agents do the hard work for you
Once you pick your policy, our agents are here to get you over the finish line. Then just relax and enjoy your savings.