Torque Shop: Can my sober friend drive my car?

Can I let my sober friend drive me back in my car if I have had too much to drink?

All vehicles must have motor insurance coverage to be used in Singapore.

There are policies that restrict coverage to drivers who are named in the policy. This would mean that the car does not have valid motor insurance when someone else is driving it. If the driver is not named in advance, the insurer is not liable to pay for any loss.

Such a requirement used to be associated with high-performance cars. But in recent years, it is not unusual to find them imposed on more regular cars.

Even for policies that allow other drivers to take the wheel, it is important to know the terms. Some may stipulate the minimum age or number of years of driving experience. Others will impose a higher insurance excess if there is a claim made when a younger or less experienced driver is at the wheel.

Engaging a valet to drive you home may seem like an alternative, but it is not always the case

that the valet companies have the necessary insurance

either. The safest alternative is to leave the car at home.

Those who are convicted of drink driving for the first time face a fine of up to $10,000, a jail term of up to 12 months, or both.