In more modern cars a low oil pressure warning will disable the engine to prevent damage.
It can be due to low oil level (the most common thing), a faulty oil pressure sensor, a faulty overpressure relief valve in the oil pump, a defective pump itself, or worn engine bearings.
If the oil level is OK, have a mechanic remove the pressure sensor and measure the oil pressure there with a gauge. If pressure is OK, renew the sensor. If not the oil pump will need inspection.
If the engine is high mileage, it could well be worn bearings.
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While an electrical fault or a faulty switch could put the light on, it is such an important light it should never be ignored and the reason for it established immediately. As far as the owner is concerned that means lifting the bonnet and checking the oil level and adding more if the level is low. If it isn't low the car should be recovered to a repair shop. Driving further could be very expensive and very inconvenient...
If the oil pressure light has switched on because the oil pressure is low then continuing to drive will soon wreck the crankshaft bearings or cause crankshaft or camshaft seizure. Damage happens so quickly if the oil pressure is lost at motorway speeds the engine is likely to be severely damaged by the time the car is stopped.
I strongly suggest you have the reason for the light switching on established and repaired.
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