DRIVING someone else's car might seem harmless, but it can land you in big trouble if you're not careful.

As a motorist you must make sure you're correctly covered by insurance otherwise you could face fines or worse.

Can I drive someone else's car?

The main thing to be aware of when driving any vehicle is whether you are insured.

Insurance is a legal requirement in the UK and if you do drive another car without being insured then you’re breaking the law.

That means you risk a hefty fine, penalty points and possible disqualification.

Does my insurance cover me to drive someone else's car?

Driving other cars (DOC) is a clause in your car insurance policy.

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It allows you to drive someone else’s car without being a named driver on their policy.

But you'll need to check the small print of your policy, because it's not always included.

If such a clause is not included in your policy then you are not covered to drive any vehicle except your own – even if your insurance policy is fully comprehensive.

Before getting behind the wheel of another car, it's best to speak to your insurer.

Aviva says: "Third party only is the minimum cover you need to drive legally in the UK.

"If you have comprehensive insurance, you're covered with third party only insurance if you need to drive someone else's car.

Can I be fined for driving someone else's car?

If you’re caught driving a vehicle you’re not insured to drive, the police could give you a fixed penalty of £300 and six penalty points

Having the car owner's permission doesn't mean DOC is legal.

Unless you're a "named driver" on their car insurance you almost certainly won't be insured.

What happens if I have an accident while driving someone else's car?

If you get into an accident while DOC you could end up paying a hefty repair bill. 

DOC insurance is only ever third party cover, so will not pay for any damage done to the borrowed car.

Instead, you would be liable and have to pay out of your own pocket.

What's the punishment for driving other cars?

Even if the car you're driving is fully insured by the owner – if you're involved in an accident or caught without DOC insurance, you will be dealt with severely by the law.

If the case goes to court you could get an unlimited fine or be disqualified from driving.

The police also have the power to seize, and in some cases, destroy the vehicle that’s being driven uninsured.

The owner would also face prosecution for letting an uninsured person drive their car.

Insurance companies take convictions for driving without cover very seriously.

What about test driving a car?

Even if you’re only test driving a car, you still need to be insured.

Always check you’re insured before you set off.

If you’re browsing or buying the car from a main dealership then this usually won’t be a problem – as it will have cover in place. 

But if you’re buying privately you’ll have to confirm your own policy covers you.

It is always worth calling your provider to be absolutely sure.

What else should I know?

People under 25-years-old or with driving convictions are unlikely to have DOC cover.

If you regularly need to DOC it would be better to be a named driver on their policy.

Ask your insurer to add a clause to your existing policy even if you aren't already covered. However not all insurers offer this option.

If you’re planning to borrow or hire a van and you’re unsure about coverage then check with your provider or the rental company.

Ten things YOU should know as a car owner

• When is your MOT due? Find out here
• When is your car tax due? Find out here
• Is it illegal to drive barefoot?
• How many units can you drink and drive?
• What do dashboard warning lights mean?
• Is it illegal to drive without road tax?
• Can you be fined for breaking the highway code?
• How to change the address on your driving licence
• What does MOT stand for?
• Is it illegal to park across someone's driveway?

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