Festival drivers warned that charging your mates could cost you up to £2,500

Thursday, 12 June 2025 18:00

By David Murphy

Drivers heading to festivals like Parklife this summer are being warned that giving friends a lift could land them with hefty fines, if they ask for more than just petrol money.

With thousands expected at Manchester’s Heaton Park on 13, 14 and 15 June for Parklife and then Oasis in July, temporary car insurance experts at Uswitch have highlighted key legal pitfalls that could hit motorists with fines, penalty points or invalid insurance.

One of the most surprising is the legality of accepting money for lifts. While it’s legal to take petrol contributions, making a profit without a taxi or private hire licence could land you in serious trouble, including up to eight points on your licence and a fine of up to £2,500.

Felicity Ferguson, a temporary insurance expert at Uswitch, said: “Festival season is all about fun, but it's still important to stay safe and legal on the road. Simple things like an overloaded boot or a muddy number plate can lead to fines, points on your licence, or invalidated insurance.”

Uswitch is urging festivalgoers to avoid eight common festival driving mistakes:

Charging mates too much for a lift: If you pocket more than fuel costs, you could be breaking the law.
Overloading your vehicle: Exceeding the weight limit may lead to a £300 fine or court action.
Driving in wellies: If your footwear limits control, it could result in careless driving penalties.
Sleeping in your car while drunk: You could still be prosecuted for being ‘in charge’ of a vehicle.
Blasting music: Loud tunes might put you in breach of Highway Code Rule 148, with up to nine points possible.
Driving the morning after drinking: If you’re still over the legal limit, you could face a driving ban or criminal charges.
Dirty number plates: An obscured plate can result in a £1,000 fine.
Poor car maintenance: Worn tyres, faulty lights or low fluids may risk breakdowns or collisions.

Uswitch recommends checking car load limits and footwear, planning ahead with alternative drivers if drinking, and taking advantage of Uswitch temporary car insurance for those borrowing a car or unsure of their own fitness to drive.

Felicity Ferguson added: “Whether you’re heading to a festival or making your way back, temporary car insurance offers a stress free way to stay covered, especially if you're sharing the drive, borrowing a car, or not sure you'll be okay to drive home.”

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