Do ride-sharing drivers need special insurance coverage to drive for companies like Uber?
Uber's liability insurance only covers drivers when they're actively working, not when they're offline or using their vehicle for personal purposes.
Most personal insurance policies have a clause that excludes commercial use, which means drivers need additional coverage for ridesharing.
Uber requires drivers to have personal auto insurance that meets their state's minimum requirements, but this coverage may not be enough.
A rideshare endorsement or separate commercial policy can fill the gaps in coverage, but drivers need to understand their specific needs.
There are three periods of coverage for Uber drivers: Period 1 (online without a ride request), Period 2 (online with a ride request), and Period 3 (online with a rider in the vehicle).
Uber maintains auto liability insurance on behalf of drivers, but this coverage is limited and doesn't provide comprehensive or collision coverage.
Personal auto insurance policies usually don't cover commercial activities, including ridesharing.
Adding rideshare insurance to a personal policy can increase premiums by 9% to over 25% per month.
Uber's insurance coverage may be canceled at any time, and drivers should understand their options for terminating coverage.
Rideshare drivers need to have personal auto insurance that meets their state's minimum requirements, even when they're not actively driving for Uber.
Some insurance companies offer optional injury protection for drivers, which can provide additional coverage in case of an accident.
Uber partners with national auto insurance companies to provide commercial auto insurance to drivers, but coverage varies by state.
Drivers can find out which carrier insures them in their state by checking the Insurance hub in the Driver app.
Rideshare insurance can cover gaps in coverage, including comprehensive and collision coverage, which are not provided by Uber's liability insurance.
Drivers should understand how Uber's insurance works, including the different periods of coverage, to ensure they're fully protected in case of an accident.