Short-term insurance for borrowing a relative’s car in the UK

Can You Legally Drive a Relative’s Car?

Before you even think about setting off, you need to check whether you’re legally allowed to drive the car. In the UK, simply having a valid driving licence is not enough. The most important thing to consider is insurance.

Unless you’re specifically named on a policy, you may not be covered. Some policies allow additional drivers, but this isn’t always the case, and even when it is, cover may be limited to third-party only. This means that if you’re involved in an accident, damage to the car itself may not be covered.

The best way to ensure you’re driving legally may be to arrange temporary insurance. This can provide you with fully comprehensive cover for a set period, ensuring you’re properly protected without affecting your relative’s existing policy.

Why Might You Need Temporary Insurance?

There are plenty of reasons why you might need to borrow a relative’s car. Some of the most common include:

• Visiting family or friends: If you’re staying with relatives and need a car for a few days, borrowing one can be far more convenient than hiring.
• Running errands: Whether it’s helping out with the weekly shop or ferrying family members around, sometimes having access to a car makes life easier.
• Driving whilst home from university: Students often need a car when returning home for the holidays.
• Sharing driving on a long journey: If you’re heading on a road trip with a relative, sharing the driving can make things safer and less tiring.
• Emergency situations: If a relative is unable to drive because of illness or injury, borrowing their car could be the only option.

Whatever the reason, it’s important to make sure you have the right cover before getting behind the wheel.

What Does Temporary Insurance Cover?

Temporary insurance can provide comprehensive cover for a set period, from just a few hours up to a few weeks. Unlike being added as a named driver on a relative’s policy, temporary cover is completely separate. This means that if you were to make a claim, it wouldn’t affect their no-claims discount.

Most short-term policies cover:

• Social, domestic, and pleasure use: This includes everyday driving such as visiting friends and family or going on a weekend trip.
• Commuting: Some policies allow you to use the car for commuting to work or university.
• Personal business use: Driving for business-related travel may be covered, but this does not extend to commercial use such as deliveries or ride-sharing.

However, there are some restrictions to be aware of. Temporary insurance generally does not cover:

• Using the vehicle for commercial purposes.
• Driving outside the UK unless EU cover is explicitly stated.
• Cars that don’t meet certain criteria set by the insurer.

Why Not Just Be Added to a Relative’s Policy?

Some people assume that being added as a named driver to a relative’s policy is the easiest option, but it isn’t always the most practical. Here’s why temporary insurance might be a better choice:

• No impact on the car owner’s no-claims discount: If you have your own policy and need to make a claim, it won’t affect the main driver’s insurance record.
• Flexibility: Cover can be arranged instantly for the exact period needed, without any long-term commitment.
• Quick and easy: No need for the car owner to adjust their policy or deal with potential premium increases.

Things to Check Before Borrowing a Car

Once you’ve sorted your insurance, it’s time to check the car itself. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and hassle-free drive.

• Tyre Pressure and Condition: Underinflated or damaged tyres can make driving dangerous. A quick check before setting off could prevent unnecessary trouble.
• Fuel Level: It’s always best to return the car with at least the same amount of fuel it had when you borrowed it.
• Lights and Indicators: Make sure all bulbs are working properly - being pulled over for a faulty light is easily avoided.
• Emergency Kit: Carrying a few vitals like a torch, phone charger, and breakdown contact details can be a lifesaver if something goes wrong.

What if you get stopped without insurance?

Driving without insurance in the UK is illegal and carries serious consequences. If caught, you could face:

• A fine of up to £300 and six points on your licence.
• Having the car seized, with additional fees to reclaim it.
• Increased insurance premiums in the future.

It’s simply not worth the risk. Taking out the right cover takes minutes but could save you from a lot of hassle.

Wrapping Up:

Borrowing a relative’s car can be a great solution for short-term transport needs, but it’s important to make sure you’re fully covered before you set off. Temporary insurance provides a flexible and legal way to drive without affecting the car owner’s policy. Whether you need a car for a weekend, a family visit, or just to share driving duties, sorting out the right cover is the responsible way to go.

Need Cover Before You Borrow a Car?

If you’re planning to borrow a relative’s car, make sure you have the right insurance in place. Press here to find a short-term insurance quote..