SOMERSET drivers are being urged to check they are able to drive other cars under their insurance policy.

Avon and Somerset PC Sam Donati issued the warning on social media after dealing with a similar situation.

Drivers may assume they are automatically covered if they have comprehensive insurance, but this may not be the case.

This is becoming increasingly uncommon, said PC Donati, and is usually only used in emergency situations.

He said: "Please don't assume that you automatically are covered to drive other cars on a comprehensive policy.

"You are not, unless otherwise stated.

"If stopped by the police you might have a nasty shock. If you crash your friend/partner/whatever's car you'll have a nastier shock, and again could end up on the hook for some serious uninsured losses.

"This is something which is becoming increasingly less common, insurance companies really don't like it as it's prone to abuse, and really is intended as an emergency measure.

"If you're using someone else's car regularly it's best to be a named driver on the policy."

Drivers are urged to check their insurance policy before getting behind the wheel of another car.

PC Donati added: "Thankfully I was able to deal sensibly with a motorist this evening in this exact predicament.

"Unfortunately though, in the event of a collision this wouldn't be as simple."