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There are all kinds of reasons why you might end up driving a mate’s car. Perhaps you want to share a journey to a festival or football match.
Maybe you’re moving house and their motor is going to be a much better bet than your own for transporting that collection of saucepans or shoes. Or it might be a spur of the moment thing. You’re staying with a friend and they ask whether you’ll nip to the shops or pick someone up from the station.
Whatever your motivation for getting behind the wheel of someone else’s car, you need to make sure that you have proper car insurance cover. And that may not be as straightforward as you think.
Planning a road trip with friends? Here’s some ideas
Embarking on a road trip with friends is one of the most exhilarating ways to explore the UK, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories. Consider starting your journey in the scenic Lake District, where you can drive through winding roads flanked by stunning lakes and rolling hills.
The beauty of the UK’s countryside is unparalleled, and it provides the perfect backdrop for candid photos and spontaneous picnics.
For those seeking a mix of history and natural beauty, a road trip through Wales offers captivating castles, rugged coastlines, and the majestic Snowdonia National Park. Alternatively, venture north to Scotland for an epic drive along the North Coast 500, famed for its dramatic landscapes and serene lochs.
Before hitting the road, ensure you have all necessities sorted out, such as temporary car insurance, which provides peace of mind and flexibility without long-term commitments.
Preparing the car for the ride
Embarking on a weekend road trip is an exciting adventure, but proper preparation of your car is essential to ensure a smooth journey. Begin by checking the car’s vital fluids such as engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. If you’re unsure what oil your car needs, check out our full guide. This step can prevent any unexpected breakdowns or mechanical issues.
Next, inspect the tyres for adequate tread depth and proper inflation. Tyres in good condition are important for safe handling and fuel efficiency. Additionally, make sure all lights and indicators are working correctly to maintain visibility and communicate effectively with other drivers.
Another important aspect is to verify that your car’s battery is in good health. A quick test can save you from the inconvenience of a breakdown. Consider obtaining temporary car insurance if you are not already covered or if you are planning to share the driving with someone else. This ensures that you are protected throughout your journey.
Finally, pack an emergency kit with essentials like a first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, and basic tools. Having these items on hand can make a significant difference if you encounter any unexpected situations. With these preparations, you can set off on your weekend road trip with confidence and peace of mind.
Won’t my own car insurance policy cover me?
Not necessarily. It’s true that if you have a comprehensive policy on your own car, it may include third-party cover for other vehicles that are not listed on your documents.
But do be careful.
Policy terms vary from insurer to insurer, so you’ll need to check out the detail. The idea of the ‘driving-other-cars’ benefit (or DOC to people in the insurance business) is that it’s there for emergencies. What’s more, you may not be covered if you’re under 25.
And think for a moment about third-party cover. It’s a legal minimum. If you had an accident, you’d be covered for the damage to another person, vehicle or property. But that’s not the same thing as having cover for the car you’re driving or any injuries that you might suffer yourself.
What about adding my name to the owner’s policy?
Yes, that is an option. But it involves the policy holder contacting their insurer and getting you added as a named driver. This may not be necessary if you’re only going to be using the vehicle for a short period and could also affect the vehicle owner’s premium. It might be better to think about temporary car insurance instead.
How does short-term insurance work?
The great thing about taking out a temporary car insurance policies is that you can set the length of time you need to be covered for. Jaunt offers flexible cover for up to 28 days. It’s completely flexible. Which means you can tailor your cover to meet your needs and your budget.
With short-term car insurance, you will have comprehensive cover, so in the unlikely event you have an accident, you have the kind of peace of mind you just can’t get from third-party insurance. The owner of the car is able to rest easy as well, as any claim on a Jaunt policy will not affect their no claims discount.
Can I get temporary cover for just one day?
Yes, you can absolutely get temporary car insurance cover for just one day. This type of short term cover is perfect for those moments when you need to borrow a friend’s car, test drive a new vehicle, or even move a car to a different location.
Temporary car insurance, also known as daily car insurance or day car insurance, is designed to offer flexibility and convenience without the need for long-term commitments. It provides fully comprehensive car insurance cover for the short period you need it, ensuring you’re protected against any mishaps on the road.
How much does a temporary insurance policy cost?
When considering how much day insurance costs, it’s important to understand that prices for temporary insurance can vary significantly based on several factors. The cost of daily car insurance is influenced by the type of vehicle you’re insuring, the duration of the coverage, your driving history, and your age, among other factors.
Do I need an annual car insurance to get temporary car insurance?
No, you do not need an annual policy to get temporary car insurance. Temporary car insurance is designed to provide flexible coverage for short periods, ranging from a few hours to several weeks.
Find out more
As you can see, temporary insurance may be just what you need when you want to borrow a friend’s car for a short period. If you want to find out more, why not check out our guide to short-term insurance.
