A classic, you have just been lent a car and a common question comes to mind: What happens if I have an accident with a car that isn't mine? We explain what insurance covers, what to do, and how to protect yourself legally.
Can you drive a car without being the insurance holder?
Yes, you can drive a car that's not in your name, as long as you have the owner's permission and the vehicle has valid insurance . The law doesn't require the driver and the insurance holder to be the same person, but it does matter who is listed as the regular driver or if you're listed as an authorized driver on the policy.
Types of authorized drivers
Depending on the insurer, there may be different levels of authorization:
- Insurance holder : the person in whose name the policy is issued.
- Regular driver : someone who uses the car most frequently, even if they are not the owner.
- Occasional driver: people who use the car occasionally, such as a family member, partner, or friend.
- Undeclared drivers : may be in trouble in the event of an accident, especially if they are young or have only recently held a license.
It's a good idea to review the specific terms of your policy before lending your car to someone else or before taking someone else's car.
What happens if I have an accident and I don't have insurance?
The question "what happens if I have an accident with a car that isn't mine" is very common, and the answer depends on several factors: whether you were authorized, whether you are listed on the insurance, and who was at fault for the accident.
What happens if you're not insured as a regular driver?
If you're not listed as a regular driver and you have an accident, the insurer may apply a penalty if it believes information was withheld. They don't usually deny coverage, but they can reduce compensation, increase the premium, or even cancel the policy.
This happens especially when:
- You are under 25 years old.
- You have had your license for less than 2 years.
- You were not listed on the policy even as occasional.
Mandatory insurance and coverage
Compulsory third-party liability insurance will cover damage to third parties even if you are not the owner. That is, if you cause damage to another vehicle or person, the insurer will be responsible. Damage to the car you were driving or additional coverage such as theft, glass, or roadside assistance is another matter.
If you are at fault for the accident
In that case, the insurance will cover third party damage , but it may not cover damage to the car you were driving if:
- You are not included as a driver.
- You have held your license for less time than the policy requires.
- There are specific exclusions by driver profile.
Additionally, if the insurer determines that there was bad faith or misuse, it could claim the costs from you.
If you are not at fault for the accident
If the other driver is at fault, their insurance must cover all expenses , both personal and material. In this case, it doesn't matter whether you were the owner of the car you were driving: you will be entitled to compensation or reparation.
Steps to follow after an accident if you are not the owner
Whatever the outcome of the accident, you must act quickly and follow protocol to avoid subsequent problems.
Fill out the form correctly
Write down as much information as possible : license plate, driver's name, insurance company, sketch of the accident, date, time, and witnesses, if any. Clearly indicate that you were the driver but not the owner of the vehicle.
Call the vehicle insurance company
Even if you're not the insured, you should report the accident as soon as possible. The insurer will assess the damage and check whether you were authorized to drive the car. The myIncidence roadside assistance app , compatible with v16 connected hazard warning lights, automatically contacts the insurer in the event of an accident or breakdown.
In many cases, even if you are not listed on the policy, the claim may be covered if the use was justified and there was no negligence.
Install a V16 beacon (mandatory from 2026)
In the event of an accident or breakdown, it is mandatory to signal the position of the immobilized vehicle with an emergency warning light . From January 1, 2026, only V16 beacons connected to the DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic) may be used instead of traditional emergency triangles.
That's why it's essential to carry a connected beacon like Help Flash IoT+ in your glove compartment, which:
- It activates automatically when placed on the roof.
- Connects with the DGT 3.0, sending your location in real time.
- It prevents you from having to get out of the car, which reduces the risk of being run over.
An essential tool if you drive other people's cars or frequently lend your own. In stressful situations like an accident, its ease of use can make all the difference.
Tips to avoid legal problems when driving other people's cars
- Inform the insurer if anyone will be using the car frequently.
- If you're going to drive someone else's car, confirm that the insurance covers you even if you're not the owner.
- Avoid lending your car to drivers under 25 or new drivers who are not listed on the policy.
- Always keep the friendly report, insurance documents, and a Help Flash IoT+ beacon certified and connected to the DGT in your glove compartment.
- If you have any questions or regularly use someone else's car, consider adding yourself to the policy as an occasional driver.
