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Garaging (def.) – the location where a vehicle is primarily parked overnight.
Auto insurance policies require the insured to notify the insurance company when the primary garaging address of any covered vehicle changes. Failure to do so can have serious consequences.
Failing to notify your insurance company of a garaging change can result in an auto insurance claim being denied.
When To Notify Your Agent
Moving to a New Home or Apartment
There is no “grace period” for a change of garaging, so it’s good to give your agent advanced notice as soon as you know your move date. This lets you get it out of the way before all the hectic pre- and post-move activity starts.
Student Takes Vehicle to College or Returns Home From College
This is a common situation that causes confusion. Even if a student returns home on weekends, if a vehicle is parked overnight at school four out of seven days a week, it is considered primarily garaged at the school address. Garaging is a separate issue from a student being legally considered a member of a parent’s household or where the student is registered to vote. Make sure you change the garaging back if a student moves home or elsewhere at the end of the semester.
An Extended Stay at Another Location
You’re going to be away for an extended period and taking your car with you:
- At second home
- At vacation home
- Visiting friends at their home
- Military service
- Living away from home for work
Loaning Your Car for an Extended Period
If you let someone borrow your car for an extended time, and it will be parked elsewhere, you must change the garaging. In addition, you’ll need to list the person as a driver on your policy because “regular use” by another person is not covered unless they are listed.
Other situations not listed here may arise that are considered a change of garaging. If you have a questionable garaging situation, please Contact Us to discuss your circumstances.
Read Our Blog Posts about Garaging
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Back to School – College Student Insurance Coverage Tips
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