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SubscribeApps, like Uber, Lyft, DoorDash and Grubhub, have expanded the flexible job market. The adaptable hours and independence all in the comfort of your own car are a desirable part-time or full-time employment option for people of all ages. However, the rise in rideshare and food-delivery jobs has also created a surplus of improperly insured vehicles on the road. Many of these on-the-job drivers are dangerously at risk of being uninsured for themselves and other drivers on the road.
Before you or a family member sign on for a rideshare or food-delivery job, make sure your vehicle is properly insured for the work ahead.
Here are three things to know before using your personal vehicle on the job.
Almost all personal car insurance policies have a standard exclusion for using your vehicle for paid deliveries and for-hire drives. If you don’t tell your insurance carrier that you are using your vehicle on the job and end up filing a claim, your insurance will likely not cover the incident.
Uber and Lyft offer insurance for vehicles to varying degrees depending on the status of the ride: if you have the app on and are waiting for a customer to ping you, if you are on your way to pick up a customer or have a customer in the car. Food delivery apps tend to offer less coverage. Deductibles with the companies’ insurance coverage can also be high ranging from $1,000 – 2,500. Fully understanding when the company’s insurance kicks in, the liability limits of their coverages and the deductible amounts will help you determine if the job is worth the risk and what insurance you will need to fill the gaps in coverage.
If you are taking a job with a rideshare or food delivery company, you will need to either add a rideshare or delivery endorsement to your current personal auto policy, change carriers or purchase a separate commercial insurance policy. Your options will likely depend on the carrier’s available endorsements, your driving record, what state you live in and the company with which you wish to work.
Navigating the risk and options with ridesharing and food delivery employment is not straightforward. Talking with an agent is the first step in helping you know your options, understand the risk and choose the best carrier and coverage for your individual situation. Without professional experience on your side, the job may not be worth the headache and expense when an incident happens.
This content is for informational purposes only. Consult your actual insurance policy for details regarding terms, conditions, coverage, and exclusions.
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