Rideshare drivers in California cannot rely on Lyft’s insurance coverage alone. Gaps in their coverage leave drivers open to liability if an accident occurs off-app or while waiting for a request.
Driving for Lyft is considered a commercial activity by most insurers, which means your personal policy likely won’t cover your claim.
We leverage our years of experience to help rideshare drivers fill these insurance gaps with comprehensive Lyft insurance options.
We’ll work with you to find a policy that meets the state’s requirements and covers all of your risks.
Start your free quote for Lyft insurance in California today.
Why Do You Need Lyft Insurance in California?
If Lyft has its own insurance coverage and you have your own personal auto insurance policy, why do you need additional coverage?
Because Lyft’s policy only applies in certain scenarios, and your personal policy does not cover commercial activities.
Rideshare insurance policies offer:
- Comprehensive coverage beyond what your personal insurance provides
- Protection when you’re waiting for passengers or requests
- Lower risk of liability if you are in an accident
Lyft offers limited coverage for drivers who are waiting for requests, which leaves you vulnerable to liability for any damages that exceed their coverage. Your additional Lyft insurance policy will help fill this gap and protect against liability.
The Three Periods of Rideshare Coverage
Insurers and rideshare companies use a standard framework to define coverage at each stage of the driver’s shift.
Here’s how it works:
- Period 0: The driver isn’t logged into the Lyft app. Only their personal auto insurance policy applies here because, as far as Lyft is concerned, the driver isn’t working.
- Period 1: The app is on, and the driver is waiting for a ride request. The driver is logged into the app and waiting to accept rides, but they have not been matched with a passenger yet. This is the primary gap zone. Personal insurers often deny claims if an accident occurs during this period because the driver is technically engaging in commercial activities. Lyft’s own coverage is limited during this period and typically only applies if the driver’s personal auto policy denies the claim.
- Period 2: En route to pick up a passenger. The driver has accepted a request and is on the way to pick up the passenger. Lyft’s insurance increases substantially during this period. Typically, liability limits are higher, and contingent collision and comprehensive coverage may be included if the driver’s personal policy has them.
- Period 3: Passenger in the vehicle. Lyft’s coverage is at its highest during this period because an actual passenger is in the car.
Period 1 is when drivers are most exposed, and where having Lyft insurance will help protect you if you are in an accident.
Lyft Insurance Requirements in California
In California, Lyft drivers must meet certain requirements for approval and insurance. Your vehicle must be newer, have 4 doors and have a California license plate.
Under State Bill AB 2293, Lyft must provide third-party liability insurance to drivers that includes $200,000 excess liability when logged in to driver mode.
Rideshare drivers must also obtain and maintain the minimum liability coverage for the state.
If an accident is not covered by Lyft’s insurance, your own Lyft insurance policy will kick in.
Who Needs Lyft Insurance in CA?
Any rideshare driver should have Lyft insurance in California. Without this essential coverage, there is a chance that your insurer will deny your claim if you are involved in an accident. That can leave you liable for:
- Medical bills for passenger injuries
- Property damage to third parties
- Your own medical care
We help rideshare drivers obtain the coverage they need to protect against liability. If your insurer or Lyft denies your claim, your rideshare endorsement will cover the cost.
Request your free quote today.
What Our California Lyft Insurance Covers
We specialize in rideshare coverage and understand the gaps in personal and third-party policies.
We’ll work with you to understand your needs and help you obtain a quote for coverage options that include:
- Liability. Covers injuries and property damage in an accident. Lyft insurance covers related expenses that aren’t covered by your personal auto policy or Lyft’s insurance.
- Collision and comprehensive. Covers damage to your vehicle caused by vandalism, fire or theft.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist. Provides protection if the other driver doesn’t have insurance or has insufficient coverage.
- Personal injury protection (PIP). Covers your own medical costs.
Why Drivers Trust Us
California Lyft insurance provides protection and peace of mind that if you are involved in an accident that is not covered by Lyft or your personal policy, your rideshare endorsement will kick in to fill the gap.
Our experienced agents take the time to understand your needs and help you obtain the coverage you need at a price that fits your budget.
Our team leverages their extensive industry experience and network to connect you with the top insurance carriers in the industry.
Rideshare drivers trust us because we offer:
- Flexible payments. Choose your preferred method, whether that’s credit card, check, e-check or debit card. Pay over the phone, online or by mail every month, six months or yearly.
- Tailored coverage. Customize your policy to meet your individual needs.
- DMV notification. Our team notifies the DMV on your behalf, saving you valuable time.
- Customer-centric service. Our agents are here to get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
Ready to get the rideshare coverage you need?