The rise of ridesharing platforms like Uber and Lyft has transformed urban transportation, offering drivers flexible earning opportunities and passengers convenient travel options. However, with this new model of driving for hire comes a unique set of insurance challenges. Liability coverage, in particular, plays a critical role in protecting rideshare drivers. Understanding how it works can help drivers avoid costly mistakes and ensure they have the protection they need.
What Is Liability Coverage?
Liability coverage is the portion of auto insurance that protects you financially if you are responsible for causing an accident. It covers two main areas:
Bodily injury liability – medical expenses, lost wages, and legal costs for injured parties.
Property damage liability – repair or replacement costs for the other party’s vehicle or property.
For rideshare drivers, liability coverage is essential because you’re transporting passengers for profit, which creates more risks compared to personal driving.
How Rideshare Insurance Works in Phases
Insurance for rideshare drivers is typically broken down into three phases of driving:
App Off (Personal Use)
When the rideshare app is off, your personal auto insurance applies. Rideshare company insurance does not cover you during this time.
App On, Waiting for a Ride Request
When you’re logged into the rideshare app but haven’t accepted a ride, coverage is limited. Rideshare companies usually offer only limited liability coverage during this period (for example, $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage in the U.S.).
Your personal auto insurance often excludes coverage here unless you have a rideshare endorsement.
Ride Accepted to Drop-Off
Once you accept a trip and until you drop off the passenger, the rideshare company provides primary liability coverage, often up to $1 million. This ensures passengers and third parties are protected if an accident happens.
Why Personal Insurance Alone Isn’t Enough
Most personal auto policies exclude coverage if you are driving for profit. That means if you get into an accident while waiting for a ride request or carrying a passenger, your personal insurer may deny the claim. Without proper rideshare insurance or company coverage, you could face financial ruin.
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Options for Rideshare Drivers
Rideshare Endorsements: Some insurers offer affordable add-ons to personal policies that fill the gaps between personal and rideshare company coverage.
Commercial Auto Insurance: For full-time drivers, a commercial policy may provide the broadest protection, though it is more expensive.
Company-Provided Coverage: Understand exactly what your rideshare platform offers in terms of liability limits, deductibles, and exclusions.
Key Takeaways
Liability coverage protects you if you cause injuries or property damage while driving.
Rideshare insurance works in phases, and gaps exist between personal and company coverage.
Without the right coverage, you could be personally responsible for significant expenses.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a rideshare driver, don’t assume you’re fully covered just because your rideshare company has insurance. Take the time to review your policy, ask your insurer about rideshare endorsements, and make sure you understand when you’re covered and when you’re not. By addressing these gaps proactively, you can drive with confidence knowing you’re protected in every situation.
Apollo Global Management