01
The car being insured is not enough
A common mistake is to think that because a car has an annual policy, anybody with a licence can drive it. That is not how motor insurance normally works. The person driving must be covered for that particular car and that particular use.
The owner can check whether you are already named on their policy. You can also read your own certificate and policy schedule to see whether you have a Driving Other Cars extension. Do not rely on something you remember being included years ago; policies change, and not every insurer offers it.
02
What Driving Other Cars cover may actually provide
Where it exists, Driving Other Cars cover is often limited to third-party liability. That may deal with injury or damage caused to somebody else, but it may not pay for damage to the borrowed car. It can also be restricted by age, occupation, vehicle ownership and the reason for the journey.
Read the wording or ask your insurer. The useful question is not simply “Can I drive other cars?” but “Am I covered to drive this car, on this journey, and what happens if I damage it?”
03
Ways to arrange cover
The owner may be able to add you as a named driver. For a short loan, a separate temporary policy can be simpler and may avoid changing the annual policy. Eligibility and cover differ between providers, so answer every question accurately and read the policy summary before paying.
If neither option is in place, do not drive. Permission from the owner and possession of the keys do not amount to insurance.
04
Before setting off
- Confirm exactly when cover begins and ends.
- Check the permitted use, particularly commuting or business travel.
- Make sure the car has a valid MOT where one is required and is taxed.
- Ask about unfamiliar controls, security devices and existing damage.
- Keep proof of cover where you can reach it.