Motorists could receive a hefty fine, and even points on their license, if they make this little-known mistake.
Using a car that belongs to a family member or close friend, even for the shortest trips, could get you in trouble when it comes to auto insurance laws.
Driving a car, when not a “named driver” on the insurance policy, would result in the motorist not being properly insured and, in some cases, a £1,000 fine.
According to Easyquote experts, both the driver and the owner of the vehicle risk being punished if an unidentified driver is behind the wheel.
Easyquote spokesperson Chris Richards urged drivers to ensure they have “specific” insurance cover before setting off on their journey.
Motorists could win £1,000 by allowing friends and family behind the wheel of their car without proper insurance (file image)
“Loaning a car for short-term use, whether for a road trip, family activities or events, requires specific insurance coverage,” he revealed.
“It is not always enough to add a name to an existing policy, as there are precise conditions that both the driver and the vehicle must meet to be entitled to temporary coverage.”
According to The Express, drivers have previously been warned about the “significant fines” that come with the wrong type of cover.
Some motorists caught could face eight points on their license or possibly a driving ban.
In certain cases, the vehicle owner could even be taken to court for allowing an uninsured family member or friend to drive their vehicle.
Going against the rule could also put some road users at risk of having their entire car insurance policy invalidated immediately.
Many motorists believe that a comprehensive policy can cover them because of the Drive Other Cars (DOC) clause that is often included, which provides third-party protection to those who drive another car.
But we shouldn’t assume that this will be the case, according to EasyQuote.
They explained that many insurance companies no longer include DOC coverage as part of their agreements.
Chris continued: ‘Making sure you have adequate insurance is not just about avoiding fines. It’s about protecting yourself and others on the road.’
Many drivers think that their comprehensive insurance policy includes a DOC (Driving Other Cars) clause, but sometimes that is not the case (file image)
This comes shortly after a motorsports expert urged motorists to notify their insurance providers if the device is connected to their car.
Many dash cans simply require users to plug them in through the vehicle’s USB port or cigarette lighter.
However, while a wired dash cam has several advantages, such as staying on when no one is present or when the engine is not running, it is considered a retrofit.
Car insurance comparison site Confused.com also confirmed that an insurer should be notified about a wired dash cam.
“It’s frustrating to think that doing something proactive to protect yourself from a claim, or even theft, could backfire on you, but drivers should be aware of the legalities surrounding dash cameras,” said CEO Select van rentalGraham Conway said.