Picking up a stranded friend with their own car – do you need insurance?

Are You Already Covered?

Before heading out, it’s near enough mandatory to check whether you’re already insured to drive someone else’s car. Some people assume that having their own insurance means they can drive any car, but this isn’t always the case.

Things to consider include:

• Your own insurance policy: If you have an insurance policy on your own car, check whether it includes cover to drive other vehicles. Some policies may offer third-party cover, but this isn’t automatic.
• The car owner’s policy: Some insurance policies allow additional drivers, but usually only if they are named on the policy. Just because your friend is insured doesn’t mean you are.

In most cases, if you’re not named on the policy, you won’t be covered to drive their car, even in an emergency.

When Might Short-Term Insurance Be an Option?

If you need to drive a friend’s car temporarily, a short-term insurance policy might be a solution. These policies provide cover for a limited period and could allow you to legally take the wheel for anything from a few hours to several weeks.

Potential Benefits of Short-Term Insurance:

• Quick and flexible cover for emergencies.
• Protection for both you and the car owner.
• May prevent any impact on the owner’s existing insurance policy.

However, eligibility may depend on factors such as the type of licence you hold, your driving history, and the specifics of the vehicle.

Alternatives to Short-Term Insurance

If getting temporary cover isn’t an option, there may be other ways to help your stranded friend without taking any risks.

1. Calling for Breakdown Assistance

If the issue is a mechanical failure, your friend may have breakdown cover that provides assistance or even transport home. Many policies include a ‘home recovery’ service that can tow the vehicle back to a chosen destination.

2. Taking Public Transport or a Taxi

If the car isn’t the problem but your friend is unable to drive, using public transport or a taxi could be a safer alternative. Many rideshare services and taxi firms now allow you to book and pay through an app, making it a convenient option.

3. Getting Another Named Driver to Help

If your friend has a family member or another friend who is already covered to drive the vehicle, they might be the best person to call for assistance.

What happens if your insurance is invalid?

Driving without insurance in the UK is a serious offence. Even if you’re only driving for a few minutes to get your friend home, the consequences can be severe:

• A fixed penalty of £300 and six points on your licence.
• The car being seized, which could mean additional recovery and storage fees.
• Higher fines or potential disqualification if the case goes to court.

It’s not worth the risk, so always check before you take control of a vehicle.

Final Insights:

If your friend is stranded and needs you to drive their car, insurance is the first thing you should check. Unless you’re already covered under your own policy or theirs, short-term insurance might be an option to get you both home safely.

Where short-term cover isn’t suitable, other options like breakdown assistance, taxis, or calling another named driver may be the best way to go.

Need Insurance Before You Drive?

If you need cover to drive a friend’s car, click the button below for more information and to get a quote.