Taking over the driving on a long road trip – what insurance do you need?

Can Anyone Take Over the Driving?

Not necessarily. Even if you trust your co-driver’s skills, they must meet certain requirements before they can legally drive your car. Before handing over the keys, ask yourself:

• Does the driver have a valid licence that allows them to drive in the UK?
• Are they insured to drive the vehicle?
• Are they familiar with the car and comfortable driving it?

If the answer to any of these questions is no, they probably shouldn’t be driving.

Which Class Of Insurance Cover Is Needed?

For someone else to take over the driving legally, they need to be insured. There are several ways this can be arranged, depending on the situation:

• Named Driver on an Existing Policy: If the person sharing the driving is already listed on the vehicle’s insurance policy, they should be covered. However, it’s always worth checking the terms to confirm what type of cover they have.
• Short-Term Insurance: If the driver isn’t already insured, temporary cover may be a flexible way to ensure they’re legally allowed to drive.
• Driving Other Cars (DOC) Cover: Some policies may allow drivers to use another person’s car, but this is often limited to third-party cover only and may not apply to all drivers.

Why Might Short-Term Insurance Be a Good Option?

If the additional driver isn’t already covered by an existing policy, short-term insurance could provide a simple and flexible solution. Temporary cover can be arranged for just a few hours or several days, making it ideal for road trips where driving responsibilities need to be shared.

Short-term cover may be useful for:

• Friends sharing the driving on a long journey.
• Family members taking turns behind the wheel.
• Road trips where drivers swap between different cars.

This type of insurance could also help protect the vehicle owner’s existing policy by keeping any claims separate.

What happens if you assume you’re covered but aren’t?

Driving without insurance is a serious offence in the UK, and the consequences can be severe. If caught, the driver could face:

• A fine of up to £300 and six penalty points.
• The vehicle being seized, with extra costs to reclaim it.
• Higher insurance costs in the future owing to the offence being recorded.

Taking a few minutes to arrange the correct cover before setting off could help avoid unnecessary trouble down the road.

Other Considerations for a Smooth Road Trip

Insurance aside, a little preparation can make a long drive much more enjoyable. Here are some extra tips to keep in mind:

• Plan Your Route: Check for roadworks, service stations, and potential rest stops along the way.
• Pack Essentials: Bring snacks, drinks, a first-aid kit, and anything else that might come in handy.
• Take Regular Breaks: Fatigue is a major cause of accidents, so swap drivers or stop for a break when needed.
• Check the Car: Ensure the tyres, fuel, and fluids are in good condition before setting off.

Wrapping Up the Details:

Sharing the driving on a long road trip can make the journey safer and more enjoyable, but it’s important to ensure that everyone taking the wheel is legally covered. Whether arranging temporary insurance or checking existing policies, sorting out the right cover before setting off can help avoid stress and potential penalties.

Need Temporary Cover for a Road Trip?

If you’re planning a long journey and need insurance to take over the driving, make sure you have the right cover in place. Hit the button below to check out your options and get a quote..