You signed up for the “SCCA Time Trials National Tour.” It sounds like fun. You aren’t racing wheel-to-wheel; you are just trying to set a fast lap. You crash. The insurer denies the claim because the event had “Time” in the name and published a winner.
Key Takeaways
- The Name Matters: If the event is called a “Race,” “Contest,” or “Time Trial,” automatic flags are raised.
- Competition Exclusion: Standard track policies exclude “Competition.” Time Trials are often defined as competition because there is a winner and a podium.
- Specific Endorsements: Some insurers sell a “Time Trial” rider. You pay extra (~20%) to cover this specific activity.
- The “Solo” Exception: Some policies allow time trials if there is only one car on track at a time (rare now).
The “Why” (The Trap): “Contest of Speed”
The exclusion language is broad:
“We do not cover any loss occurring during a race, contest, or demonstration of speed.”
SCCA Time Trials have classes, points, and trophies. That is a contest. Even if you are slow, you are in a contest.
The Investigation: Who covers TT?
I called the underwriters.
OpenTrack
- Stance: They have historically been the most TT-friendly. Their policy often defines “Competition” as wheel-to-wheel racing (racing other cars directly). Racing the clock is often allowed.
- Verification: You MUST check the 2026 policy definition of “Competition.”
Lockton / RLI
- Stance: They have a specific checkbox for “Time Trial.” If you check it and pay the surcharge, you are covered. If you check “HPDE” and run a TT, you are denied.
Hagerty
- Stance: Generally stricter on timed events. They prefer HPDE (Education).
Comparison Table: Event Eligibility
| Event Type | Coverage Status | Notes |
| HPDE (Point-by Passing) | Covered | Standard rate |
| Track Day (Open Passing) | Covered | Standard rate |
| Time Trial (Transponders) | Check Policy | Often requires surcharge |
| Club Racing (Wheel-to-Wheel) | Denied | Requires true “Race Car” insurance |
[IMAGE: Photo of an SCCA Time Trial podium celebration]
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Read the Event Rulebook: Does the event declare “Winners”? If yes, it’s a contest.
- Select the Right Activity: When buying the policy, if it asks “Is this a Time Trial?”, say YES. Do not lie.
- Pay the Extra: It might cost $100 more. Pay it.
- Keep the Timesheets: If you crash during practice (untimed) vs. the timed session, it might matter. Keep the schedule.
FAQ
Is Autocross covered?
Autocross (cones in a parking lot) is usually excluded by standard auto insurance now, and track insurance often ignores it unless you buy a specific policy. However, the speeds and risks are lower.
What if I’m just running the transponder for fun?
If the event is an HPDE, and you use a transponder, you are usually fine. If the event is a Time Trial, you are not.