The Maryland Injury Attorney Podcast

Insurance for Rideshare and Delivery App Drivers


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Who’s Covering You When You Drive?

Whether you’re driving for Uber, DoorDash, or a newer app like Devour Now, the big question is this: who’s insuring you while you’re on the job? The answer isn’t always simple. While these platforms usually require you to carry valid auto insurance and maintain a well-functioning vehicle, your insurance policy might not protect you once you’re driving for pay. Understanding when you’re covered—and when you’re not—is critical.

The Two Modes of App-Based Driving

Most rideshare and delivery platforms treat your driving status as either “on” or “off.” Once you’ve accepted a job—whether you’re en route to pick up a passenger or grab an order—you’re typically covered under the platform’s commercial policy. Until then, neither the platform nor your personal insurance may provide coverage during idle app time or while waiting for a gig. This in-between moment is one of the biggest coverage gaps that drivers often overlook.

What Your Personal Insurance May Not Cover

Many personal auto insurance policies exclude coverage during rideshare or delivery work. That means if you’re using your car for business—even if you’re just making one delivery—your policy could deny coverage in the event of an accident. Worse, if your commercial platform’s policy doesn’t fully kick in, it could leave you in a financial bind. Ask your insurance agent directly about the exclusions and options for rideshare-friendly coverage.

Don’t Rely on the App’s Coverage Alone

While companies like Uber and DoorDash often carry generous liability coverage once you’ve accepted a job, those policies are primarily designed to protect the company, not you. The quality and terms of these policies also differ significantly. If your personal coverage is denied and the platform’s policy doesn’t fully apply, you could be left with unpaid medical bills, vehicle damage, or worse. That’s why Joe Bowers strongly recommends consulting a live agent to review your policy—especially before signing up to drive.

Insurance for Rideshare and Delivery App Drivers

If you’re a rideshare or delivery driver—or even considering it—don’t wait until after an accident to understand your insurance coverage. Contact Bowers Law for a free policy review. We’ll help you spot gaps before they become costly mistakes. Contact us for more information.

The post Insurance for Rideshare and Delivery App Drivers first appeared on Bowers Law.

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The Maryland Injury Attorney PodcastBy JoBeth Bowers