Nov 24, 2025
Driving a Car That Isn’t Yours: What You Need to Know About Car Insurance
Borrowing a friend’s or family member’s vehicle may seem simple, but from an insurance perspective, it comes with specific rules that every driver should understand. Whether it’s an occasional favour or a regular arrangement, knowing how coverage applies helps you avoid unexpected expenses and protects both the vehicle owner and yourself. This Car Insurance Coverage Guide will help you navigate these aspects.
This Car Insurance Coverage Guide explains how car insurance responds when you drive a vehicle that isn’t yours—based on key industry principles and real insurer practices.
Insurance Follows the Vehicle—Not the Driver
The most fundamental rule in car insurance is that coverage applies primarily to the **insured vehicle**, including the individuals who are permitted to drive it.
If you borrow your neighbour’s car and an accident occurs, the insurance company evaluates the situation based on **the owner’s policy**, not yours. Their liability limits, optional coverages, and deductibles determine how the claim unfolds.
This means that even if you personally carry excellent coverage on your own car, those protections won’t automatically extend unless your policy contains a specific endorsement.
For readers in Canada looking to review or purchase auto insurance, see our dedicated page: Car Insurance – Bonjour Assurance
When You’re Not at Fault
If another driver is responsible for the collision, the vehicle owner is usually compensated for damages regardless of their insurance level.
Even a basic third-party liability policy — often called one-way coverage — is usually enough when the insured vehicle is *not* at fault. The insurer of the responsible party pays for the repair costs.
You, as the driver, will still have the accident recorded in your claims history, since you were operating the vehicle at the time, but your neighbour’s insurance handles the repair.
When You Are Found Responsible
If you caused the accident, the owner’s insurance must include two-way coverage (also known as collision and comprehensive) for their vehicle to be repaired.
If they only have basic liability coverage, their insurer will not cover their own vehicle’s damage.
In this situation, your own auto policy may come into play, but only if you have the Q.E.F. 27 endorsement, which extends coverage to borrowed or rented vehicles.
You can learn about optional coverage and endorsements on our resource page:
Understanding Auto Insurance in Canada
Occasional Use: When an Extra Driver Isn’t Necessary
Borrowing a relative’s or friend’s vehicle a few times a year generally doesn’t require an added endorsement or a formal declaration. Most insurers recognize “occasional use” as being covered under the original policy, as long as the driver has the owner’s permission and a valid licence.
However, if you borrow the vehicle frequently—such as weekly or monthly—insurance companies may require you to be listed explicitly as an occasional driver. This helps avoid disputes and ensures the insurer has an accurate risk profile.
Accident Records Affect Both the Driver and the Owner
This is an important detail many people overlook:
When a claim is filed because of an accident involving a borrowed vehicle, the incident appears in both claims histories:
• The driver’s file
• The vehicle owner’s file
This can influence future premiums for both parties. Your driving behavior directly affects your friend’s insurance record. Transparency and communication are essential to avoid unintended consequences.
Before Borrowing a Car, Have a Clear Conversation
Before taking the keys to someone else’s vehicle, discuss their insurance coverage and set expectations. Make sure both of you understand:
• What type of coverage the owner has
• Who pays the deductible in case of an accident
• Whether you have extension coverage such as Q.E.F. 27
• How often you plan to use the vehicle
These simple conversations can prevent tension and financial surprises. A damaged bumper is repairable—damaged friendships are harder to fix.
If you are evaluating car insurance options or want to ensure you have proper protection before driving another person’s vehicle, visit our main page:
Bonjour Assurance – Auto Insurance
Final Thoughts
Driving a borrowed vehicle is common, but understanding the insurance rules behind it is essential. Coverage follows the vehicle, not the driver. Fault determines who pays for damage. Claims affect both parties. And clear communication prevents misunderstandings.
Whether you’re the one handing over the keys or the one borrowing them, proper knowledge ensures that everyone is protected on the road.
see reference : IA Advice-Zone
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