Is auto insurance active during a state of emergency?
Auto insurance is still active during a state a state of emergency. In addition, the rules for a state of emergency don't always prohibit driving. Read on to learn how car insurance works after a natural disaster, how to file a state of emergency insurance claim, and what to do in a state of emergency.
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Brad Larson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Brad Larson has been in the insurance industry for over 16 years. He specializes in helping clients navigate the claims process, with a particular emphasis on coverage analysis. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in Political Science. He also holds an Associate in Claims (AIC) and Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designations, as well as a Utah Property and Casual...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Mar 28, 2024
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Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Mar 28, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- In most cases, your auto insurance company must accept any claims you file during a state of emergency
- If you file a claim during a travel ban associated with a state of emergency, you may have to prove that you had just cause to drive
- If you violate your insurance contract during a state of emergency, expect your claim to be denied
You may wonder, “Is car insurance in force during a state of emergency?” Insurance companies don’t provide separate state of emergency car insurance plans. Still, if you get in an accident after a state of emergency declaration, your insurance company almost always has to process your claim.
So, can you drive during a state of emergency? States can set their regulations for driving during a state of emergency. Furthermore, not every state of emergency affects your ability to drive.
Keep reading to learn the answer to, “How does a state of emergency affect insurance?” and learn what happens if your car is damaged by a natural disaster. Enter your ZIP code above to find cheap emergency car insurance near you.
Your Auto Insurance Is Still Active in a State of Emergency
What does a state of emergency mean for insurance? In most states of emergency, your car insurance still applies because you’re allowed to travel. The same hazards that could cause you to hit someone else’s car or property exist regardless of emergency status:
- Distraction
- Obstacles in the road
- Intoxicated drivers
- Car malfunctions
As a result, your insurance company must honor your contract even if you’re filing a car insurance claim during a national or state emergency. These declarations do not affect the legally binding nature of your contract. Just make sure you understand how to file a car insurance claim correctly.
At the same time, your insurance coverage does not expand during a state of emergency. For example, if you only have liability auto insurance coverage, you cannot file a claim to repair your car during an emergency. Similarly, your limits do not increase, and your deductible remains in place.
Keep reading to find out the answer to, “Does a state of emergency declaration impact insurance?”
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How a State of Emergency Can Affect Your Car Insurance
Can you drive in a state of emergency? Some states of emergency do not affect your ability to drive. This is especially true when the threat comes from disease.
For example, on March 5, 2020, the governor of Maryland, Larry Hogan, declared a state of emergency because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This declaration was meant to control the spread of COVID-19, which is not directly related to being on the road. As a result, people who drove after the March 5 declaration could still count on their insurance coverage.
Who can drive during a driving ban? Sometimes, people have to drive during states of emergency. For example, if your governor declares an emergency because of flooding and you live near a river, you may need to evacuate your house.
Similarly, if a tornado heads for your area, you might drive to a local emergency shelter. In these cases, your insurance covers any damages you cause or sustain on the road.
However, you might be wondering, “In other cases, can I drive in a state of emergency?” Some states of emergency restrict or limit travel altogether. For example, on March 30, 2020, Hogan amended his state of emergency declaration to keep Marylanders from traveling except in essential cases. Similar declarations often go out during severe snow and ice storms.
However, if you have to go to the hospital, buy food, or perform an essential job during these emergencies, your auto insurance remains in effect.
Understand State Laws, Travel Bans, and Exceptions to Car Insurance Coverage
Many readers have asked, “Can I drive during a state of emergency?” The president can issue national states of emergency that affect your ability to drive legally.
For example, on September 14, 2001, President George Bush declared a national state of emergency because of the terrorist attacks on September 11th. If any proclamations included a travel ban, you would have to follow it, although your auto insurance would likely be unaffected.
Whenever the federal government releases a national state of emergency, states are likely to take similar actions. Your state’s response to the emergency may be stricter than the federal government’s, so it’s important to know your local policies. For example, if the federal government does not have a travel ban in place and your state does, you could be prosecuted for driving.
When it comes to travel bans, states of emergency, and car insurance, it’s essential to read your insurance contract carefully. If you’re supposed to stay home during a state of emergency, and you get in an accident, you may have violated your right to coverage. Remember, your insurance company cannot deny state of emergency insurance claims if you’re fulfilling an essential function:
- Evacuating your home after a natural disaster
- Fleeing from a hostile or violent area
- Purchasing groceries or medicine
- Taking someone to the hospital
- Assisting with evacuation or law enforcement efforts
- Performing a government-sanctioned job
When in doubt about which actions could breach your insurance contract during a state of emergency, ask your insurance agent or a lawyer.
Other Potential Exceptions for State of Emergency Insurance
There are a few other exceptions to your right to maintain auto insurance coverage during a state of emergency. First, if you deliberately damage your vehicle or someone else’s, you void your right to file a claim.
For example, if you’re participating in the act of civil disobedience and drive your car into company property, your liability auto insurance coverage will not assist with the damages. If you intentionally cause an accident, your insurance company does not have to cover your bills, regardless of a state of emergency.
Additionally, if you violate a travel ban without just cause, your insurance company may be able to deny you coverage. These cases are rare and difficult to prove. In most cases, insurance companies will accept claims filed during a state of emergency.
However, if roads are deemed impassable, will insurance cover your car? Insurers may not cover your vehicle damages if you drove on a road deemed impassable, but it depends on your policy exclusions.
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How a State of Emergency and Car Insurance Relate
In general, your car insurance continues to work even during states of emergency, including during travel bans. If you have to evacuate because of a natural disaster-related to a state of emergency, you can file a claim for any damages that occur. Your insurance company may have the right to refuse a claim if you cause an accident or unnecessarily violate a travel ban.
So, are you allowed to drive in a state of emergency? In most cases, yes, but it depends on the nature of the emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is auto insurance still in effect during a state of emergency?
Does car insurance cover a state of emergency? Yes, auto insurance remains active and in effect during a state of emergency. State of emergency declarations do not typically impact the validity or coverage of auto insurance policies.
So, what happens when a state declares a state of emergency? A state of emergency allows local officials to respond to a crisis, which may include deploying the National Guard or reallocating funds. States can also restrict travel, which can lead to fines for driving on closed roads.
Will my auto insurance cover damages or losses if they occur during a state of emergency?
Generally, auto insurance coverage remains unchanged during a state of emergency. If your policy includes comprehensive and collision coverage, it should continue to provide protection for damages or losses resulting from accidents, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters, as per the terms and conditions of your policy.
Can I file an auto insurance claim during a state of emergency?
Yes, you can still file an auto insurance claim during a state of emergency. Insurance companies are equipped to handle claims regardless of the circumstances, including during emergencies or natural disasters. It is advisable to contact your insurance provider as soon as possible after an incident to initiate the claims process.
This may lead you to ask, “Will car insurance cover natural disasters?” Yes, it will if you carry comprehensive insurance coverage.
Are there any specific provisions or limitations regarding auto insurance during a state of emergency?
While auto insurance coverage generally remains intact during a state of emergency, it is important to review your policy or consult with your insurance provider for any specific provisions or limitations that may apply.
Some policies might have exclusions related to certain events, such as acts of war or civil unrest, leading you to ask, “If roads are closed, will insurance pay?” In some cases, insurers could deny your claim if related to road closures, but it depends on your policy details.
It’s best to understand the details of your individual policy to ensure you have a clear understanding of your coverage.
Are there any additional steps I should take regarding my auto insurance during a state of emergency?
It is advisable to review your auto insurance policy regularly to ensure it meets your needs and provides adequate coverage. Consider factors such as comprehensive and collision coverage, liability limits, and deductibles. If you anticipate an increased risk of accidents or damages during a state of emergency, you may want to consider adjusting your coverage accordingly. Additionally, stay in touch with your insurance provider for any updates or specific instructions they may have during times of emergency.
Does insurance cover out of state emergency?
Does car insurance cover every state? Yes, your insurance coverage will pay out even while out of your home state, including during a state of emergency.
Can you drive during a state of emergency in NJ?
New Jersey drivers may be wondering, “Can you travel during a state of emergency in New Jersey?” Travel restrictions in NJ after a state of emergency vary by the nature of the emergency. Check with local officials in the state if an emergency is issued to see if a travel ban is in place.
Can you drive during a state of emergency in NY?
Are you allowed to drive during a state of emergency in New York? Like most other states, it depends on the circumstances. Check with local officials in NY to see if you can drive after a state of emergency.
How does a FEMA claim work?
If your car was damaged or totaled in a disaster after a state of emergency, you can file a FEMA claim if the federal government approves your disaster area eligible for assistance.
However, you should contact your insurance company first to see what’s covered. If you don’t have insurance or your policy didn’t pay for everything, FEMA can pay for the rest.
What damages does FEMA cover? After applicable insurance pays out, FEMA can cover car or home damages caused by the disaster in a FEMA-declared disaster area.
Does car insurance cover snow accidents?
You might be wondering, “Does insurance cover snow accidents?” Your auto insurance can cover snow accidents, but it depends on the type of coverage you have and the incident.
For instance, collision auto insurance covers you if you slide on ice and hit another vehicle. On the other hand, comprehensive insurance can pay for your car repairs if it gets damaged by falling ice.
Does car insurance cover natural disasters?
Does car insurance cover weather-related damages? Yes, if you have the right auto insurance coverage. For example, comprehensive coverage pays for non-collision vehicle damage, including from floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes.
What is natural calamities insurance? Natural calamities insurance is any policy that covers damages related to natural disasters. This could include comprehensive coverage, which pays out for weather-related damage, or home insurance.
Can essential workers drive in a driving ban?
So, is it illegal to drive during a state of emergency if I’m an essential worker? Whether essential workers can drive in a driving ban depends on your state’s emergency order. In most cases, states will make exceptions for essential workers, such as health care workers, first responders, and utility workers.
Are you insured on a closed road?
It depends on your insurance policy and the situation. For example, some policies exclude coverage if the incident occured while the driver was violating the law.
Can you drive a snowmobile on the road during a state of emergency?
Whether you’re allowed to drive a snowmobile during a state of emergency depends on your local regulations.
How long can you drive during a state of emergency?
Knowing how long you can drive in a state of emergency depends on your local regulations. Curfews, evacuation orders, and travel bans can all restrict travel, but it depends on the specifics of the state of emergency declaration.
Does travel insurance cover a state of emergency?
In some cases, travel insurance could cover events connected to a state of emergency, including:
- Cancellation: Your policy may cover non-refundable travel expenses if you cancel your trip after a state of emergency gets declared at your trip destination.
- Trip Interruption: If you have to end your trip early because of a state of emergency, your coverage could help pay for lost expenses and/or the cost to drive home.
- Medical Expenses: Your travel insurance could include coverage to pay for medical expenses incurred as a result of a state of emergency.
However, you should read the details of your travel insurance policy to know exactly what’s covered.
Does a state of emergency help with car insurance claims?
A state of emergency could expedite your claims process if your claim is related to the emergency.
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Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Brad Larson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Brad Larson has been in the insurance industry for over 16 years. He specializes in helping clients navigate the claims process, with a particular emphasis on coverage analysis. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in Political Science. He also holds an Associate in Claims (AIC) and Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designations, as well as a Utah Property and Casual...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.