Personal auto insurance is indispensable for driving to work, shuttling your kids to school, and picking up groceries. However, a personal policy may not cover you if you get into an accident while driving professionally for Uber®, Lyft®, or another ride-share outfit. For that, you need a commercial grade of auto insurance coverage.

Ride-Share Companies Provide Some Coverage

As a ride-share driver, you receive some coverage from the company, but only during certain periods. For instance, you receive some low liability limits while you are on the clock but before you've been assigned a rider. Unfortunately, you'll get no collision or comprehensive coverage during this period.

Once you have been assigned a passenger—whether you've picked them up or not—you are often covered for liability coverage, but collision and comprehensive policies are contingent on you carrying it yourself on your own vehicle.

Coverage Types to Consider

If you are driving full-time, you could be on the app for hours over the course of a day without having a passenger assigned. During these periods, you will not be properly covered if you're involved in an accident. Because of this, you should make sure you have adequate liability coverage to pay for medical, repair, and legal costs in case you cause an accident.

You should also maintain collision and comprehensive coverage to protect your own vehicle against damages. The first covers on-the-road accidents while the latter covers fire, floods, falling objects, vandalism, and theft. You also need underinsured/uninsured motorist insurance to pay for damages caused by a driver who has little or no coverage. This way, you protect your vehicle and your source of income.

For expert assistance designing an auto insurance policy that covers you and your car while working, contact Schommer Insurance in Hastings, MN. They are an independent agency who represents numerous nationally recognized brands—like Progressive®, Travelers®, and Safeco®. They specialize in auto, life, business, and homeowners insurance. Visit their website or call (651) 319-0699 to request a quote.