I joined a “Sunday Morning Cruise” organized by a local car club. We were driving spiritedly on a back road. The guy in front braked hard, and I rear-ended him. My insurance denied the claim, citing the “Organized Racing or Stunting Activity” exclusion, even though we weren’t racing. They used the Facebook Event page as evidence.
Key Takeaways
- “Organized” is the Trigger: Solo speeding is covered (negligence). “Organized” speeding is excluded.
- Social Media Investigation: Adjusters search for the “Event” page. If the description says “Rally,” “Run,” or “Spirited Drive,” they argue it was a pre-arranged speed contest.
- The “Stunting” Clause: Many policies now exclude “Stunting,” which includes drifting, burnouts, or donuts, especially if filmed.
- Liability Gap: If the organizer didn’t have insurance (they never do), and you crash, you are personally liable for the other driver’s injuries.
The “Why” (The Trap): Pre-Arranged Activity
The exclusion reads: “Bodily injury or property damage arising out of the participation in any pre-arranged or organized racing, speed, or demolition contest, or in practice or preparation for any such contest.”
They argue the “Cruise” was a “Speed Contest” because everyone was driving fast together.
If the route map was published and times were recorded, it’s a Rally (Excluded).
[IMAGE: Screenshot of a Facebook Event: “Canyon Run! 8:00 AM. Pace: Fast.”]
The Investigation: I Called Them
I asked about “Cruises.”
1. Progressive
- Stance: If it’s a “Car Club Tour,” it’s usually fine. If it’s a “Rally” (Gumball style), it’s denied.
- Red Flag: Timed checkpoints.
2. Hagerty
- Stance: They cover “Club Activities” and “Tours.” They understand the difference between a Cruise and a Race.
- Verdict: Safer for group drives.
3. Legal Precedent
- Reality: If you were driving recklessly with a group, it can be charged as “Street Racing” by police. If you get that ticket, insurance denies the claim based on the “Criminal Acts” exclusion.
Comparison Table
| Activity | Covered? | Risk Factor |
| Cars & Coffee (Parked) | Yes | Low |
| Club Tour (Speed Limit) | Yes | Low |
| “Spirited” Canyon Run | Debatable | High |
| Street Takeover | Denied | Extreme |
| Gumball/Rally | Denied | Extreme |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Check the Invite: If the flyer says “Race,” “Run,” or implies speeding, do not go (or drive at the back, alone).
- No Stickers: Do not put “Rally” numbers or stickers on your car. It looks like a race car to the adjuster.
- Dash Cam: Run a dash cam. If you were driving the speed limit and crashed, the video proves it wasn’t a race, regardless of what the group was doing.
- Disconnect: If a crash happens, do not say “I was with the group.” Say “I was driving on Route 9.” You are an individual driver responsible for your own car.
FAQ Section
Is a charity rally covered?
If it’s a “Poker Run” (not timed, obey laws)? Yes. If it’s a race? No.
What if I hit a friend in the group?
It’s a standard At-Fault collision. Your liability pays them. (Awkward at the next meet).
Does the organizer have liability?
You can try to sue them, but they usually have you sign a waiver. Focus on your own driving.