We’ve all been there: Maybe you fell asleep in the sun, had an unplanned drink, or were simply too tired to drive. There are countless scenarios where giving someone else your car keys isn’t just the smart thing to do, but also the safest thing to do.

But before handing over your keys, you should know whether your insurance policy covers another driver. After all, there’s no quicker way to ruin a great festive season than by finding out repairs for an accident or minor bumper bashing will need to be paid from your own pocket.

Here are the various driver options you can get covered for under dotsure.co.za’s Comprehensive Car Insurance.

Open driver policy

This basically means anyone – who is sober and in possession of a valid driver’s license – can drive your car with your permission. If there is any damage or loss to your vehicle while they’re driving, you’re covered just as you would be if you were the one driving.

Because of the higher risks involved with an open driver policy, the premium for this type of insurance is higher – but you can easily turn it off and on as needed on the 24/7 Manage Portal.

Nominated driver policy

Ah, the best of both worlds! Your premium is lower than on the open driver policy, but you’re still able to hand your keys over to a trusted friend, family member, or spouse when you don’t feel like driving.

With this option, you’ll have to specify the person (or people) on your policy schedule, and only those people will be able to drive your car with cover.

Single driver policy

This means that you – and only you – are able to drive the car while having the protection of your insurance cover. On the plus side, selecting this policy will bring your premiums down, but if you regularly have someone else drive your car, be warned that you won’t be covered should anything happen to it while you aren’t the one driving.

How to tell which policy you have

Don’t worry, we don’t expect you to have your entire insurance policy memorized.

To check your policy details, you can sign in to our 24/7 Manage Portal. Here, you can view your policy and make changes or upgrades. Because we’re all about putting you in the driver’s seat, you can turn your open driver policy and nominated driver policy on and off as and when you need them – perfect for the unpredictable festive season.

Alternatively, you can give us a call on 0861 368 7873 or email us on u2us@dotsure.co.za to find out details about your policy or switch your driver coverage.