Whether you’re driving full-time for Uber or doing the odd Bolt run to make a few extra rands, ride-hailing has become a popular hustle. But here’s a royal question many drivers forget to ask: ‘If I drive for Uber, am I still covered by my car insurance?’
The answer? It depends. And in the kingdom of insurance, assumptions can cost you big.
Let’s unpack what you need to know about insurance and ride-hailing to make sure you’re not left royally exposed.
Standard car insurance vs. ride-hailing
Let’s start at the beginning. Personal car insurance is designed to cover private use. That means trips to work, the gym, school runs, and the occasional braai.
But the minute you use your car to transport passengers for payment (like driving for Uber or Bolt), you’re entering commercial territory. And unless your insurer knows this and your policy reflects it, you could be driving uninsured.
So, am I still covered if I drive for Uber
If you haven’t told your insurer that you’re driving for Uber, then no, you’re probably not covered. In the event of a claim, the insurer may reject it based on ‘non-disclosure’ or ‘misrepresentation.’
That’s insurance speak for: ‘You didn’t tell us everything, so your claim could be turned down.’
Don’t risk it. If you’re driving for any ride-hailing platform (even part-time), you need to notify your insurer and ensure you have the right cover in place.
What kind of insurance do Uber drivers need
As a ride-hailing driver, you need commercial car insurance or ride-hailing insurance.
This type of cover is designed specifically for transporting paying passengers and includes:
- Cover for accident damage, theft, and hijacking.
- Third-party liability (if you cause damage to other people’s property).
- Passenger liability.
- Business use classification.
Some insurers even offer flexible cover based on the number of hours you drive per week.
Does King Price cover Uber drivers
Yes, we do! But here’s the royal fine print: King Price only offers ride-hailing cover through a broker for commercial clients. So if you’re an Uber or Bolt driver, you’ll need to go through a registered broker to get the right kind of commercial insurance from the king.
Our commercial products are built to cover your business needs, including ride-hailing services. That means peace of mind while you’re out there hustling.
Why you need to be honest with your insurer
We get it… Declaring you’re an Uber driver might bump up your premium. But if you’re not upfront and something goes wrong, your claim could be denied altogether. Honesty isn’t just the best policy; it’s the only policy that actually pays out.
Always disclose how your car is used. It helps your insurer calculate your risk correctly and offer cover that actually works when life happens.
Other cover to consider as an Uber driver
If you’re using your car to make a living, it’s worth looking at additional insurance options like:
- Personal accident cover: Pays out if you’re injured and can’t work.
- Loss of income cover: Helps cover your earnings if your car is out of action.
- Emergency assist: For breakdowns, accidents, or flat tyres while you’re on the job.
With the right mix of cover, you’ll protect your income, your car, and your passengers.
From hustle to hassle: Avoid uninsured surprises
Driving for Uber, Bolt, or any ride-hailing service might be your side hustle, your main hustle, or your ticket to financial freedom. But without the right insurance in place, you could be 1 trip away from disaster.
The truth is, your standard personal policy won’t cut it if you’re carrying paying passengers, and no one wants to find that out after a bumper bash.
Rather ride smart and secure. Whether you’re full-time or part-time behind the wheel, make sure you’ve got the cover that matches your hustle. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
Speak to a King Price commercial broker today and get ride-hailing cover that won’t let you down when you need it most.
FAQs
1. Does my normal car insurance cover Uber driving?
Nope. Standard personal car insurance doesn’t cover transporting passengers for money. Once you start earning with Uber, Bolt, or similar services, you need commercial or ride-hailing insurance.
2. What happens if I don’t tell my insurer I drive for Uber?
You’re basically driving uninsured. If you claim and your insurer finds out you’ve been ride-hailing without declaring it, they can reject your claim.
3. Does King Price cover ride-hailing drivers?
Yes, we do, but only through a registered broker for commercial clients. So, if you’re driving for Uber, get in touch with a King Price broker to get the right royal cover.
4. Is ride-hailing insurance more expensive?
It can be because commercial use comes with higher risk. But it’s a small price to pay compared to the cost of a denied claim or replacing your car out of pocket.
5. Can I get emergency assist if I drive for Uber?
Yes! If you’ve got the right King Price commercial cover, you’ll still qualify for emergency services like roadside assist and accident assist, because the king has your back on every trip.