Short-term cover for a young driver borrowing a parent’s car for a weekend

Adding a young driver to a parent’s existing policy can be costly and time-consuming, which is why short-term insurance could be a convenient alternative. But what does it involve, and what do you need to know before taking the keys for the weekend? Let’s break it down.

Why Can’t I Just Drive My Parent’s Car Without Insurance?

It might be tempting to assume that a parent’s insurance might automatically cover you, but that’s not always the case. In the UK, car insurance follows the vehicle, not the driver. If you’re not specifically named on a policy or don’t have your own temporary cover, driving the car could result in fines, penalty points, or worse - the car being seized.

Even if your parent has a comprehensive insurance policy, that doesn’t mean you can just hop in and go. Many policies exclude other drivers unless they’re named, and those that do allow it often only provide third-party cover - meaning any damage to the car itself wouldn’t be covered.

How Does Short-Term Cover Work?

Short-term insurance is a flexible way for young drivers to get legal and insured for a short period without affecting a parent’s existing policy. It provides a separate, standalone cover for the vehicle and driver, meaning any claims wouldn’t impact a no-claims discount.

This type of cover is available for a variety of reasons, such as:

• Borrowing a parent’s car for a weekend trip.
• Visiting family or friends without relying on lifts.
• Driving whilst home from university.
• Sharing driving responsibilities on a long journey.
• Getting some extra experience on the road.

Cover can usually be arranged quickly and for as little as a few hours up to a few weeks, making it ideal for short-term needs.

Who Can Get Short-Term Cover?

Young drivers who have a full or provisional licence from the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or most EU countries may be eligible for temporary cover. However, those with international driving permits won’t be accepted.

As with any insurance policy, eligibility can depend on factors such as:

• The driver’s age and experience.
• The type of car being insured.
• Where the car is registered and kept.
• The purpose of use - usually only social, domestic, and pleasure, commuting, or personal business use is covered.

Commercial use, such as ride-sharing or deliveries, won’t be covered under short-term policies.

What’s the Benefit of Short-Term Cover Over Being Added to a Parent’s Policy?

Whilst some parents may choose to add their child as a named driver on their existing policy, this isn’t always the most practical option. Short-term insurance has several advantages:

• No impact on the parent’s no-claims discount: If an accident happens under a temporary policy, it won’t affect the main policyholder.
• Quick and flexible: Cover can be arranged instantly for as little as a day, making it perfect for weekend use.
• No long-term commitment: Unlike being a named driver on a policy, short-term cover can be arranged just for the specific period it’s needed.

Things to Check Before Hitting the Road

Once you’ve sorted your insurance, it’s time to check the car itself. A few quick steps can help prevent any unexpected breakdowns or issues during your weekend on the road:

• Tyres: Ensure they have the correct pressure and sufficient tread.
• Oil and coolant levels: Avoid the risk of overheating by checking these before setting off.
• Lights and indicators: Make sure all bulbs are working properly.
• Fuel: Top up if necessary - returning the car with an empty tank probably won’t go down well!

What happens if you have no insurance and drive?

Driving without insurance is a serious offence in the UK and carries some hefty consequences. If caught, you could face:

• A fine of up to £300 and six points on your licence.
• Your vehicle being seized - and possibly destroyed if it’s not claimed in time.
• A higher insurance premium in the future owing to the offence being recorded.

It’s simply not worth the risk. Sorting out short-term insurance takes minutes, but dealing with the consequences of driving without it can last for years.

The Final Say:

Borrowing a parent’s car for the weekend can be a great way to gain independence and experience on the road, but it’s important to do it legally and responsibly. Short-term insurance offers a simple, flexible way to stay covered without the hassle of long-term commitments or affecting a parent’s policy.

Need Cover for the Weekend?

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