What does car insurance NOT cover?
Doug Stockman • March 10, 2025
Don't get caught by surprise.
TL;DR - Quick Read, Detailed Info. Below
Intentional Damage is Excluded:
Car insurance won't cover damage you cause on purpose.
Maintenance and Wear & Tear Aren't Covered:
Routine upkeep and mechanical breakdowns aren't insurance issues.
Personal Belongings are Typically Excluded:
Items stolen from your car may be covered by homeowner's or renter's insurance.
Commercial Use Requires Special Coverage:
Rideshare, delivery, and other business driving need specific endorsements.
Policy Limits Apply:
Insurance pays only up to your policy's limits, and some natural disasters or modifications may not be fully covered.
Alright, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dissect the hilarious fine print of your car insurance policy – the stuff they don't put in the shiny brochures.
Intentional Damage?
Nope! Think you can "accidentally" ram your ex's car because they "totally deserved it?" Insurance says, "Hold my deductible, you're on your own, buddy." They've got investigators, and trust me, they've seen it all. Plus, insurance fraud? That's a one-way ticket to super high insurance rates.
Wear and Tear?
Ha! Your car's acting up? Making weird noises? Leaking mystery fluids? Insurance is like, "That's cute. Call a mechanic, not us." They cover accidents or theft, among other things but not normal wear and tear. They don't cover mechanical issues unless it was caused by a covered claim.
Laptops and Wallets?
Adios! Your car's basically a rolling treasure chest for thieves? Think about the items in your car, sporting equipment, drones, and cell phones are just to name a few. Your insurance company is like, "Bless your heart, but that's what renter's or homeowner's insurance is for!" Plus, you can bundle it with your auto and save money! Click here for a quick renter's insurance quote. Bundle and save money.
Ubering or Delivering? Think your regular policy covers your side hustle as a pizza delivery ninja or a rideshare rockstar? Think again! They call that "commercial use," and it needs its own special endorsement. Ask your agent, to make sure you are covered.
Racing and Reckless Driving?
You're kidding, right? If you're turning your daily commute into a "Fast & Furious" sequel, insurance is gonna tap out faster than a toddler at naptime. "High-risk activities" can cause the policy to be cancelled.
My insurance pays for all of the other party's damages? Those state minimums? $25,000/$50,000/$25,000? That's insurance speak for "We'll cover a light fender bender, maybe. But if you total a Lamborghini and send someone to the ER, prepare to sell your prized collection of Beanie Babies." Those numbers are how much your policy will pay out, per person, per accident, and for property damage. If you do more damage than that, you may be paying out of pocket.
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Your insurance will only pay up to the limits specified in your policy. If damages exceed those limits, you'll be responsible for the remaining balance.
Let's take a deeper look:
South Carolina State Required Minimums:
$25,000 for bodily injury per person.
$50,000 for bodily injury per accident.
$25,000 for property damage.
Think of it like this: that's the bare minimum to keep you from getting a letter from the DMV and to be legal. But let's be real, is "bare minimum" ever enough? Especially when you're talking about protecting your precious ride and your even more precious self. And what about the other party in your at fault accident? Higher limits are recommended. Limits into the millions are available.
What exactly do those numbers $25,000/$50,000/$25,000 mean? Alright, let's decode those seemingly random numbers: $25,000/$50,000/$25,000. Essentially, that's your insurance company's way of saying, "We'll cover up to $25,000 (the 1st number) if you hurt one person, $50,000 (the second number) if you hurt a whole bunch of people in one go, and $25,000 (the last number) if you turn someone's shiny new pickup into a crumpled work of modern art." Think of it as a financial "oops" buffer, but one that might leave you saying "oh dear" if you really do some serious damage. In today's world of very expensive medical bills, and very expensive vehicles, these limits can be used up extremely quickly. If you don't have enough insurance to pay for the other party's damages, what happens next? Higher limits are recommended. Limits into the millions are available.
Customizations? Extra, Extra, Read All About It! Your ride's decked out with spinners and a subwoofer that could shake the earth? Your standard policy might shrug and say, "We only cover stock, buddy." You'll need extra coverage for your bling.
The Moral of the Story? Read the Fine Print! Your insurance policy is like a legal love letter – full of promises, but also a bunch of "ifs" and "buts." So, read it, ask questions, and don't assume anything. And remember, when in doubt, call your insurance agent. They're there to help.
Getting your Spartanburg vehicle tax refund: A guide from Select Source Insurance. Did you sell, trade, or wreck (as in a total loss) your vehicle? Did your vehicle get repossessed, or have you moved out of state? You may be eligible for a refund! We understand that navigating property taxes can be confusing, especially when life events like selling or wrecking a car come into play. Many Spartanburg residents don't realize they might be eligible for a refund on their vehicle property taxes in such situations. At Select Source Insurance, we're here to help clarify the process and ensure you get the refund you deserve. When are you eligible for a refund? Spartanburg County offers vehicle property tax refunds in several instances: Selling, Trading, Wrecking, or Repossessing a Vehicle Returning a Leased Vehicle Moving Out of State before your vehicle tag decal expires Transferring a tag does to another vehicle does not qualify What documentation do you need? The required documentation varies depending on why you are seeking a refund. The Spartanburg County Auditor's Office may require: a Bill of Sale Trade-in agreement A statement from your insurance or repossession company Documentation from the leasing company Your new out-of-state registration. How to apply for your refund? You can apply: in person by email: countyauditor@spartanburgcounty.org. by mail: to the Spartanburg County Auditor's office at 366 N. Church Street, Suite 200, Spartanburg, SC 29303 We're here to help Understanding vehicle property tax refunds can be complex. As your local independent insurance agency, we are here to assist with your car insurance needs and related questions. Here is a link: Spartanburg County Tax Refunds Also, did you know you can turn a vehicle tag in online? Yes, it is called a virtual tag turn in or decommissioning a tag. Here is the link: Decommission a Tag If you have questions about eligibility or need help with documentation, contact Spartanburg County. Informational purposes only. Check with the appropriate government entity for actual process.
Driving Smarter: Understanding South Carolina's New Hands-Free Law As your trusted independent insurance agency, we're committed to keeping you informed about important changes that impact your driving and, by extension, your insurance. South Carolina is taking a significant step towards safer roads with the new South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act, which goes into effect on September 1, 2025. This law is a crucial update to our state's distracted driving regulations, and it's essential for all drivers to understand its implications. What Does the New Law Prohibit? Beginning September 1, 2025, the new law prohibits drivers from using mobile electronic devices in the following ways while operating a motor vehicle on public roads: Holding or supporting a mobile device with any part of their body. This means no more holding your phone to your ear, resting it on your lap, or wedging it against your shoulder. Reading, composing, or transmitting texts, emails, app interactions, or website information on a mobile device. Watching any motion, including videos, movies, games, or video calls, on a mobile electronic device. It's important to note that this law applies to a broad range of "mobile electronic devices," including cellphones, portable computers, GPS receivers, and electronic games. Are There Any Exceptions? Yes, there are some specific exceptions where you can still use your device: When you are lawfully parked or stopped. When initiating a voice-based communication that is automatically converted to text, as long as you are not holding or supporting the device. When reporting an accident, emergency, or safety hazard to a public safety official. For navigation, listening to audio-based content, or obtaining traffic/road condition information, provided the device is not held or supported by your body. To initiate or end a cellular call without typing, and without holding or supporting the device. When using equipment or services installed by the original manufacturer of the vehicle. Penalties for Violations To allow drivers time to adjust, law enforcement officers will only issue warnings for violations during the first 180 days after the law goes into effect (from September 1, 2025). After this warning period, the penalties will be: First offense: A fine of $100. Second or subsequent offense (within three years): A fine of $200 and two points assessed against your driver's license. It's important to remember that officers can stop you if they have a clear and unobstructed view of you unlawfully using a mobile electronic device. While you cannot be arrested solely for a hands-free violation (unless you fail to appear in court or pay a fine), accumulating points on your license can impact your driving record and potentially your insurance rates. Why This Matters for Your Insurance Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. This new hands-free law aims to reduce those accidents, making our roads safer for everyone. For you, as a driver, adhering to this law is not just about avoiding fines and points; it's about reducing your risk of being involved in a collision. Fewer accidents can lead to: Lower insurance premiums: A clean driving record with no distracted driving violations can help keep your car insurance rates down. Avoiding claims: Preventing accidents means you won't have to go through the hassle of filing an insurance claim, dealing with repairs, or managing potential injuries. Protecting your deductibles: Each claim typically involves paying a deductible, so avoiding accidents saves you money out-of-pocket. As your independent insurance agency, we work with multiple carriers to find you the best coverage at the most competitive rates. By driving responsibly and complying with the new hands-free law, you're not only contributing to safer communities but also actively helping to protect your insurance standing. If you have any questions about how this new law might affect your specific insurance policy or if you'd like to review your current coverage, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you navigate these changes and ensure you're well-protected on the road.
South Carolina Teens will have to wait! Coming Soon: Stronger, Safer SC Driver's Licenses Are On The Way! As your trusted independent insurance agency in Spartanburg, we're always looking out for updates that impact our community. That's why we want to bring your attention to an important change coming to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) this fall: the rollout of more secure driver's licenses, beginner's permits, and identification cards. This isn't just a cosmetic update; it's a significant step forward in protecting South Carolinians from identity fraud and ensuring the integrity of our official identification documents. What's Changing and Why It Matters The SCDMV is modernizing the way licenses and ID cards are produced, incorporating advanced security features and upgraded materials. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect and why these changes are so beneficial: Enhanced Security Features: The new cards will be made from stronger materials and utilize state-of-the-art printing techniques, including laser engraving. This makes them significantly more resistant to counterfeiting, providing better protection against identity theft for you and a more reliable credential for law enforcement and businesses. Centralized Issuance: South Carolina is joining at least 45 other states and the District of Columbia in centralizing the production of all licenses, permits, and ID cards. This process enhances efficiency and allows for the inclusion of high-level security elements that weren't previously feasible. New Look, Familiar Symbols: While specific design details are still to be announced, the new cards will prominently feature iconic South Carolina symbols like the Palmetto Tree and the State House, making them both secure and a proud representation of our state. What Does This Mean for You? Good news! You do not need to take any immediate action. Your current South Carolina driver's license or identification card remains valid until its listed expiration date. However, here's what to keep in mind for new applications or renewals: In-Person Application, Mail Delivery: Beginning this fall, you will still apply for licenses or ID cards in person at SCDMV branches. You'll present your required documentation and complete any applicable testing. Temporary Certificate: Instead of walking out with your permanent card, you'll receive a temporary driving certificate or identification certificate. This temporary document will be valid for driving, voting, and other uses while you await your permanent card. Mail Delivery for Permanent Card: Your new, permanent, secure card will arrive by U.S. mail within 7-15 business days. Don't Wait Until the Last Minute: If your license is nearing expiration, the SCDMV encourages you not to wait until the very last day to renew. Since the new cards will be mailed, allow ample time for delivery. REAL ID Remains Important: While separate from this security upgrade, remember the importance of a REAL ID. As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID compliant driver's license (indicated by a gold star) or another federally approved identification (like a valid U.S. Passport) is required to board domestic commercial flights or enter secure federal facilities. If you plan to fly or access federal buildings, ensure your current license is REAL ID compliant or plan to obtain one during your next renewal. We believe these advancements from the SCDMV are a positive step for all South Carolinians. A more secure driver's license helps protect your personal information and provides greater peace of mind in our increasingly digital world. As always, if you have any questions about how these changes might impact your insurance needs, or if you need assistance with any of your personal or business insurance policies, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you navigate these updates and ensure you're always well-protected. More information here: South Carolina DMV - Roll Out