The short answer
Usually not, unless you add rideshare coverage. Many personal auto policies exclude driving people or goods for pay. If you have an accident while working, your carrier may deny the claim. A rideshare endorsement or a policy designed for rideshare drivers can help close that gap.
How coverage changes during a trip
Coverage is often described in stages. Who pays depends on which stage you were in when the accident happened.
- App off: you're driving for yourself, so your personal policy applies as usual.
- App on, waiting for a request: the rideshare company often provides limited liability coverage. Damage to your own car may not be covered.
- Ride accepted and on the way: the rideshare company's coverage is usually higher at this stage.
- Passenger in the car: the rideshare company's coverage usually applies, often including some coverage for your car if you meet its terms.
Where the gaps are
Even when the rideshare company's coverage applies, you can still face costs. Common gaps include:
- Damage to your car while the app is on and you're waiting for a request
- A high deductible on the rideshare company's coverage for your car
- Lost income while your car is being repaired
- A personal policy claim that gets denied because you were working
What a rideshare endorsement does
A rideshare endorsement is an add-on to your personal policy. It usually extends some of your personal coverage to the waiting stage, and sometimes helps with the deductible on the rideshare company's coverage. Some carriers offer it, some don't, and some offer a separate policy instead. What it covers depends on the carrier and your state.
Why you should tell your carrier
If you drive for pay and don't tell your carrier, a claim may be denied, and your policy could be canceled or not renewed. Telling them lets you find out what's covered and what isn't, before you need it.
Delivery driving works differently
Food and package delivery apps have their own coverage rules, which often differ from rideshare. Some rideshare endorsements cover delivery, and some don't. If you deliver, ask about that specifically.
Before you start driving
- Read the rideshare company's insurance details for drivers.
- Call your carrier and say you plan to drive for a rideshare company.
- Ask whether a rideshare endorsement is available and what it covers.
- Check your collision and comprehensive coverage and deductibles.
- Ask whether delivery driving is covered too.
Ask an agent
CapCenter's in-house insurance agency compares coverage across multiple carriers. An agent can review your auto policy and help you compare options if you drive for a rideshare company.