Recently, I noticed a friend (who shall remain anonymous) driving her boyfriend’s car. So, I asked if it had cost much to add her on to his car insurance.
Her reply was something like: ‘I have open drive, I think – I’m over 25’.
So a little more digging and we eventually find out that because she had ‘driving other cars extension’ on her policy, she thought she could drive any car and that comprehensive cover would apply regardless of what car she was driving.
Initially, I thought this was just an isolated case (as she is not the sharpest tool in the box) but when I mentioned it to a couple of other friends, it seems that many people are confused about it.
So I am going to clarify:
1. Open Drive (normally on fleets – rare on car insurance) is where anyone with a full licence, clean record and of a certain age – can drive the vehicle or vehicles that are insured under the policy. So if you have a car policy with open drive – then (for example) a person who is 25+ with full licence and clear record, can drive your car only with your consent and they will be covered comprehensively (if you have comp cover and no restrictions apply).
2. ‘Driving of other cars extension’ is very popular on car insurance. This covers the policyholder only to drive any other car (additional cover restrictions may apply). BUT, it is very important to understand that the cover under this extension is ‘THIRD PARTY ONLY’ – so if you damage the car which you are driving then the cost of repairs to that car is not covered.
If you are unsure about what cover applies – then you should ask your broker/insurer. Never make assumptions. In case this happens.
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Disclaimer: The material contained is this article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.
