Ridesharing – Are you properly insured?
The United States has recently seen an extreme uptick in what is often referred to as the emerging “sharing society.” As younger generations in particular opt for sharing of all kinds – cars, homes, and apartments – it is crucial to be aware of the impact these activities have on your insurance.
In an increasingly connected society, peer-to-peer services are springing up, through the use of mobile apps that allow consumers access to transportation services. As ridesharing companies such as Uber and Lyft keep growing, the industry is more popular than ever.
In most cases, ride sharing is not protected through a basic auto policy. This policy typically excludes coverage for liability, bodily injury, physical damage or property damage arising out of the ownership, operation or occupation of a vehicle while it is being used for transportation services. If you are considering using your vehicle for these services, you should note the following:
- Operators/drivers must be licensed by the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC) and maintain a minimum of $1.5 million commercial liability insurance.
- You must obtain a special Hackney Operator’s License issued by the DPUC prior to transporting passengers for hire in RI.
- These services are required to be provided only in vehicles bearing “Public Registration License Plates.”
Most standard personal auto policies contain exclusions for livery — which essentially means driving for hire. Typical exclusions found in policies are described below, but individual policy exclusions can vary. Policyholders are advised to contact their OceanPoint Insurance agent to learn which exclusions apply to them. All the exclusions below do not apply to a share-the-expense car pool.
Liability Coverage (Exclusion): Liability Coverage is not provided for any insured’s liability arising out of the ownership or operation of a vehicle while it is being used for public or livery transportation.
Medical Payments Coverage (Exclusion): Medical Payments Coverage is not provided for any bodily injury to the insured that is sustained while occupying the insured vehicle when it is being used as public or livery transportation.
Coverage for Damage to your Auto (Exclusion): Loss to your insured vehicle or any non-owned vehicle, that occurs while it is being used for public or livery transportation will not be paid for.
To learn more about insurance coverage for ridesharing, contact your OceanPoint Insurance agent at 401.847.5200.
