[Texas] How can I prevent a high risk driver (non-custodial parent) from using my daughter’s car that I insure?
UPDATE: Thank you all for the insight and advice to my situation. I’m going to drive my daughter to the visit and pick her up afterward. That removes any risk involving the car or my insurance and, more importantly, avoids putting her in the position of having to withhold the keys from her mother. I do not want to create more anxiety for any of my children. Appreciate all the perspectives! Vibes with the insurance agency once they returned my call.
Location: Texas
I have a teenage daughter who is insured under my policy. Her mother has three prior DWI convictions and does not own or insure the vehicle my daughter drives.
My children have not seen their mother in about three years, but they will be meeting her for dinner for a couple of hours. Because of their mother’s history and past issues with respecting boundaries, I’m concerned that she might pressure my daughter into allowing her to drive the vehicle.
I plan to make it very clear to my daughter that nobody else has permission to drive it. However, I want to understand how to protect myself legally and financially if her mother drives it anyway. The concerns around manipulating my daughter and giving into pressure or she takes the keys without my permission.
My father-in-law previously had a minor accident while driving my SUV, and the resulting insurance consequences were significant. I am talking $400/mo difference. Therefore, my questions are:
- Under Texas law, could my insurance be responsible if my daughter’s mother drives the vehicle without my permission and causes an accident?
- Should I ask my insurer to specifically exclude her as a driver, even though she does not live in my household?
- Would a written notice stating that she does not have permission to drive any of my vehicles help protect me?
- Are there any other reasonable steps I should take before the visit?
I’m only seeking advice about protecting myself and my insurance coverage. I understand that I should also speak directly with my insurance agent or an attorney.