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Get insurance for Uber drivers

Finally, drivers can get proper Uber insurance in Ontario. The province’s insurance regulator announced on July 7th, 2016, that it approved policies for ridesharing for all Uber drivers. Ontario joined Alberta as one of two provinces in Canada at the time to offer insurance to Uber and ridesharing drivers. Since then, Quebec, Nova Scotia and others have added insurance that comes into effect when the app is turned on until the ride is complete and the passenger exits the vehicle.

Uber insurance fills a gap that has existed in the industry for some time. With the rise of the sharing economy, it provides innovative solutions that meet the needs of consumers. It is great for both drivers and passengers as they can have peace of mind knowing that they have proper insurance.

Uber insurance options in Ontario

There are a couple of options for Uber drivers to get auto insurance in Ontario with Aviva and Economical. Additional insurers are also planning to come to market with Uber insurance options.

Uber insurance with Economical

As of September 1, 2020, Economical Insurance entered a partnership with Uber Canada to offer insurance in Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia, and Quebec. Drivers will automatically receive commercial insurance when using the app.

Female uber driver driving a car with male passenger talking on mobile phone

Uber insurance phases

Uber insurance can be broken down into 4 phases :

Phase 0 : The driver is offline, and drivers use their personal insurance.
Phase 1 : The driver is logged into the app and is available to accept rides.
Phase 2 : The driver accepts a ride request and is on the way to pick up a passenger.
Phase 3 : The driver is transporting a passenger to their destination.

Economical coverage amounts are different for each phase

During each phase, a different level of coverage is enacted, and the Uber commercial auto insurance does not kick in until the app is turned on and the driver is ready to engage in ridesharing.

Here is how it works for each phase :

Phase 0 : Personal insurance in effect.
Phase 1 : $1 million third party liability, standard accident benefits.
Phase 2 : $2 million third party liability and standard accident benefits.
Phase 3 : $2 million third party liability and standard accident benefits.

However, this is the basic coverage, and it may not be enough for some drivers who may require more comprehensive insurance when engaging in ridesharing services.

Aviva insurance for Ontario Uber drivers

This Aviva Uber insurance is an add-on or endorsement that goes beyond your standard insurance.

Existing Aviva Insurance policyholders can add the extra protection for a small fee that is based on your current annual Aviva auto premium and the number of ridesharing hours you perform weekly.

If you do not currently have insurance with Aviva, you will need to switch providers to get insured.

To be covered by Aviva ridesharing insurance, drivers must meet these conditions :

You can rideshare for a maximum of 20 hours a week.
You are contracted with a transportation network or ridesharing company.
You must be licenced for a minimum of 6 years in the US or Canada.
You can carry up to 7 passengers.
Your vehicle cannot be licenced as a commercial vehicle (no taxis or limousines).
Your vehicle is not used for commercial use, including delivery services.

You can receive this as an addition or endorsement to your personal Aviva insurance if you meet these conditions. According to Aviva, “Uber does not currently offer any ridesharing insurance that fully conforms with Ontario’s minimum automobile insurance requirements.” Uber only provides third party liability for its drivers. This is not adequate in Ontario.

Greg Somerville, CEO of Aviva Canada says, "We're excited to offer a simple and affordable solution within a driver's existing personal auto policy, thereby providing drivers and passengers with absolute peace of mind that they are properly insured while ride-sharing." Aviva’s product protects ride-sharing drivers from the time they respond to a request for a lift to when they drop passengers off.

Aviva Canada and Pembridge Insurance also offer this for ridesharing drivers in Alberta.

How much does Uber insurance cost?

Insurance for Uber drivers can be added to your insurance at no additional cost. If you currently participate in ride-sharing or plan to become an Uber driver, you must inform your advisor. They will then advise your insurer about your intentions to ensure you are protected.

Aviva Uber insurance costs will vary based on your current policy and the number of hours you will engage in ridesharing. It will be an additional fee.

Which Uber drivers are included in insurance?

It is available for the following ride-sharing operations :

UberX : Seats up to 4 passengers. The most affordable Uber option.
UberXL : Seats up to 6 passengers and are usually SUVs.
Uber Select : This is an entry-level luxury car service. The vehicle seats up to 4 people, and cars are BMWs, Mercedes, and other luxury vehicles.
UberHop : Share trips with other users along popular routes during peak times.
UberPool : You rideshare with other people to share the costs of the trip.
Uber Eats : The delivery of food, groceries, and other items.

Do I need proof of my Uber policy?

You will not receive a paper copy of your Uber policy. An electronic insurance certificate can be found through the Uber app. Refer to this document if you experience an accident or traffic violation.

Why do I need to get proper insurance as an Uber or ride-sharing driver?

Here are three main reasons why you need to be properly insured :

Regular insurance doesn't cover ride-sharing : Uber requires you to have valid car insurance, but your insurer may not cover you or your vehicle if you get in an accident while ridesharing. So, you’ll need to pay out of pocket for damages to your vehicle and for medical costs (if applicable). Uber insurance solves this issue and ensures drivers are properly insured.
Your current insurance may get cancelled : Your insurer may not renew if they find out you are a ridesharing driver. If you are currently a driver or plan to become one, contact ThinkInsure today.
Peace of mind : You’ll have peace of mind knowing you and your passengers are properly protected. Whether you are driving for personal use or are driving people around using the Uber app, you will be insured.

What is the difference between ride-sharing and taxi insurance?

Taxis are considered commercial vehicles so they must have proper commercial auto insurance to legally operate. Ride-sharing vehicles are used for both personal and paid fare driving purposes.

Uber insurance in Toronto

On May 3, 2016, Mayor John Tory promoted Uber as a viable alternative and walked a careful line of trying to appease taxi companies while hearing the demands of the general public for Uber services.

The complicated new rules – about 20 pages in regulations – are an attempt to regulate both Uber and the taxi industry. The taxi industry is not happy with the new rules saying that the rules are unfairly biased against it.

The new bill from Toronto City Council introduces a new Private Transportation Companies (PTC) licensing category that will include ridesharing services.

Highlights of rules for Uber (PTCs) and taxis

Many new rules will apply to Uber drivers and other ridesharing services if they want to operate in Toronto and GTA. Some rules for taxis have also changed to help make things fairer. Below is a summary of some of the key changes.

Fares

Uber : Can only book fares by using a smartphone app.
Taxis : Can pick up curbside customers hailing and book fares via a smartphone app.

Background checks

Uber : Background checks are now required.
Taxis : Background checks continue to be required.

Annual licencing

Uber : Annual licencing fee of $10 per driver and 20 cents per trip.
Taxis : Annual licencing fee of $290 per driver.

Driver licencing

Uber : Must have a G licence and a city permit.
Taxis : Must have a Taxicab driver’s licence.

Vehicle safety checks

Uber : Vehicles must now have 2 safety checks per year.
Taxis : Taxis continue to require 2 safety checks per year.

Base fair

Uber : Must raise its base fare from $2.50 to $3.25 to be the same as taxis.
Taxis : Taxicab base fare remains at $3.25.

Liability insurance

Uber : Need $2 million in liability and must show proof of insurance to the City of Toronto.
Taxis : Need $2 million in liability protection.

Surge pricing (can raise pricing based on demand)

Uber : They apply surge pricing in high demand times.
Taxis : Taxis can now apply surge pricing if rides are booked via a smartphone app.

Cameras and emergency lights

Uber : Cameras or emergency lights aren't required now, but this will be reviewed by the city council.
Taxis : Cameras and flashing emergency lights continue to be required.

Can my current insurance cover me as an Uber driver?

Insurers are working on products for Uber and ride-sharing. Aviva now allows part-time Uber drivers to have an endorsement added for a nominal increase in premiums. Rates are based on how many hours per week a driver does ride-sharing.

What happens if I get into an accident while driving for Uber?

UberX provides insurance for bodily injury and property damage to third parties. You are responsible to ensure that you have adequate insurance for your vehicle and yourself.

Ontario regions where Uber is currently operating

Additional cities will be added over time.

Alberta cities with Uber

Uber insurance FAQs

Does Uber insurance cover the driver?

Yes. Uber insurance will provide coverage to drivers when they are offering ridesharing services. The level of protection is dependent on your insurance policy and plan limits.

Does driving for Uber increase your insurance?

Yes. Your premiums will increase if you drive for a ridesharing platform. Why? You will be driving more hours than a normal person. This increases your risk of filing a claim or getting into an accident.

Does Uber insurance cover my car?

Yes. Your Uber policy will cover your vehicle when you are working as a driver. Liability, accident benefits, and DCPD levels will vary based on your policy details.

Am I required to tell my insurer if I am an Uber driver?

Yes. You need to speak with your insurer before you start driving for Uber or any other ridesharing service. Your insurance policy is not valid if you operate a vehicle-for-hire service. Additional insurance is required.

Get a quote for Uber car insurance

If you are an Uber or ridesharing driver we can help you find coverage. Speak with a ThinkInsure advisor to compare car insurance quotes and get insured.

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2024-11-14