Borrowing a Car This Christmas? Here’s How to Stay Safe

If you need to do a little bit of driving over the festive season, then it might make sense to borrow a car from a friend or family member. You might be popping out for supplies on Christmas Eve, or picking up someone from the train station. If the usual driver of a given vehicle has been drinking (which, during Christmas time, might not be unlikely), then handing over the keys might be the safest thing to do.

But exactly how can you borrow a car in a way that’s sensible and safe? Let’s take a look at why insurance matters.

The Importance of Temporary Cover During the Holidays

If you aren’t insured to drive a given car on public roads, then doing so will put you on the wrong side of the law. You could face an on-the-spot fine of up to £300, and six points on your license. If the matter escalates to the courts, then the fine is potentially unlimited, and you could be banned from driving entirely.

During Christmas time, the roads are more dangerous, and the authorities might take a dim view of any rule-breaking – even if you’re just driving for two minutes down the road.

Temporary car insurance addresses this problem. It will offer cover for the duration of your stay, and provide peace of mind for both the owner and driver of the vehicle, as well as any passengers.

Steps to Arrange Cover for a Borrowed Car

So, how do you go about arranging cover? The procedure is broadly similar to the one you might go through when shopping for traditional forms of insurance. You’ll need to provide your insurer with your license number, as well as the registration number of the vehicle being insured. Contact and billing information will also be requested. Make sure that all of this information is accurate – as this could be crucial when you come to make a claim.

Safety Tips for Driving an Unfamiliar Vehicle

When you’re driving an unfamiliar vehicle, it’s usually best to err on the side of caution. Check the vehicle thoroughly to make sure that it’s fit for the road. During winter, the road surface might be more slippery, which might make it a good idea to limit your speed. Be cautious, and spend some time familiarising yourself with the locations of all the controls before you set out. Knowing how to control the lights and the wipers is particularly important.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Borrowing a Car

Perhaps the most disastrous mistake when borrowing a car is assuming that you’re going to be insured. But there are other errors to consider, too. You might ensure that you return the car in the condition in which it was given to you. Crumbs on the passenger seat, and chipped paintwork, are a Christmas no-no!