How weekly insurance works for visitors borrowing a car

Do You Need Insurance to Borrow a Car?

Yes. Every vehicle on UK roads must have insurance, and simply borrowing a car from a friend or relative doesn’t automatically mean you’re covered. In many cases, the car owner’s insurance won’t extend to additional drivers unless they’re specifically named on the policy.

If you’re borrowing a car for a few days or a week, you’ll need to make sure you have the right insurance before driving. Without it, you could face legal consequences, including fines and penalty points.

How Does Weekly Insurance Work?

Weekly insurance is a type of short-term cover designed to provide temporary protection for drivers who need a car for a limited time. It may offer a convenient alternative to being added as a named driver on someone else’s policy.

With weekly insurance, you could get cover for a specific period without affecting the car owner’s policy. This means that if you make a claim, it won’t impact their no-claims discount.

Who Might Need Weekly Insurance?

Weekly insurance could be suitable for various situations, including:

• Visitors borrowing a car from family or friends during their stay.
• Expatriates returning to the UK for a short visit.
• Those test-driving a car before making a purchase.
• Drivers who need temporary transport whilst their own vehicle is being repaired.

It’s worth checking the specific terms of any policy to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements.

What Does Weekly Insurance Typically Cover?

Whilst the details of policies may vary, weekly insurance may provide cover for:

• Accidental damage to the vehicle.
• Third-party liability for damage to other vehicles or property.
• Personal injury cover in case of an accident.

However, policies might have exclusions, such as restrictions on certain types of vehicles, so it’s important to check the details before purchasing cover.

What Are the Alternatives to Weekly Insurance?

Whilst weekly insurance may be a flexible option, there are alternatives to consider:

• Being added as a named driver: If you’re staying with someone who owns a car, they may be able to add you to their policy. However, this process can take time and may not always be available for short-term visitors.
• Car hire insurance: If you’re hiring a car instead of borrowing one, insurance might be included in the rental agreement. However, you should check for excess charges and restrictions.
• Annual policies with cancellation options: If you’re planning a longer visit, a standard insurance policy with cancellation flexibility could be worth exploring.

The best option may depend on how long you need to be insured and the type of driving you’ll be doing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Borrowing a car in the UK as a visitor may seem straightforward, but there are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Assuming you’re covered: Always check whether the car owner’s insurance extends to additional drivers.
• Waiting until the last minute: Arranging insurance in advance can help you avoid delays and complications.
• Ignoring policy restrictions: Some policies may have restrictions on the types of vehicles covered or where you can drive.

By planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth driving experience during your visit.

Wrapping It All Together:

Borrowing a car in the UK as a visitor is entirely possible, but making sure you have the correct insurance is a thoroughly good idea. Weekly insurance may offer a flexible and convenient way to get covered without affecting the car owner’s policy. However, it’s important to explore all your options, including being added as a named driver or using hire car insurance.

Whatever you choose, having the right cover in place before you drive could be the most appropriate way to stay safe and avoid legal issues.

Need Weekly Insurance for Your UK Visit?

If you’re visiting the UK and need insurance to drive a borrowed car, make sure you have the right cover. Tap here for a clear and instant short-term insurance quote..