Quote:
Originally Posted by golfnut
there has been a lot of discussion about policies that will not pay if a cart exceeds certain limits, it would be nice if someone could post the actual language in their policy and the name of the insurer so we could all be more informed instead of a lot of hearsay...gn
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Contrary to a prior post by Talk Host, this is actually the single most important post on this topic.
Having spent over 33 years involved in insurance claims I marvel at all the insurance "experts" who post on this issue. I've written policy language and litigated thousands of coverage and assorted claim related issues over the years. The bottom line is, show me the specific policy language that strips coverage for a "modified" golf cart.
As TH correctly points, there isn't coverage for insured vehicles rented out to others, or those involved in races etc. There are specific livery and race and speed exclusions in many policies, although, unlike others, I know better than to speak for all policies issued by all insurers. It's fairly common to have these specfic exclusions in most policies. Apparently the Allstate "agent" is able to speak expertly for every insurance company. I personally doubt she knows what the Allstate policy is.
There isn't an exclusion that I have ever seen that says, "If the vehicle described in this policy is modified, this policy will not apply". There is also no definition of "modified" that I have ever seen. So it would read something like "modified means any alteration that changes or alters the vehicle with the intent of enhancing performance or appearance to other than was intended by the manufacturer of the vehicle". So where is that in the policy?
If you increase the speed of the golf cart to that meeting the states definition of an LSV, you need to follow the state mandated licensing and safety rules. However, it's still a 2009 Yahmaha golf cart for insurance purposes absent any specific policy language affecting coverage.
If you insure your golf cart, modify it to LSV and advise your agent, you'll get the exact same policy. However, the rating class will be different and the coverages will change to comply with the state regs. But it still meets the definition of your described and insured vehicle for policy purposes, unless excluded.
Lot's of confusion between being in the proper rating class and what's covered. Most of us have policies "rated" for all drivers over 55 and no youthful drivers. Some even have ratings for travels to and from work less than 7,500 miles per year. Premiums are based upon these factors. If you drive 15,000 miles a year, have an accident, the company doesn't deny coverage for a claim, no more than if you forgot to mention your 30 year old son moved in and now drives the car. An LSV is rated differently than a low speed cart, but it's still a golf cart.
So for all the "experts" out there with statements like "I know it's in there" etc "show me the money"
The most laughable post of all is the statement that not all exclusions are in the policy. Oh really? It's those "secret" exclusions that always cause insurers problems.